Caitlynn McAllister is in a class of her own.  

The Lyman, Maine, resident is this year’s sole addiction studies graduate and is the recipient of the Colby-Sawyer Award, the college’s most prestigious student honor. 

The award is given annually to the senior who, in the opinion of the faculty, best exemplifies the ideals of the college —  personal dignity, intellectual growth, contribution to campus life and constructive influence on other students.

Faculty nominators said McAllister elevates the learning environment, builds up others, creates space for diverse voices and approaches her work with integrity and purpose. 

“She embodies the spirit of Colby-Sawyer College through her scholarship, leadership and unwavering dedication to meaningful work that benefits both her peers and the broader community,” wrote a faculty member.  

McAllister called the recognition an incredible honor. “When I received the news that I had been selected, I was genuinely surprised,” she said, “as I have made so many friends at Colby-Sawyer who are equally deserving.” 

McAllister majored in addiction studies because she witnessed the impacts of addiction growing up and wanted to understand the disorder and how to support affected people and families. 

Professor Kate Turcotte helped McAllister optimize her education. “In many ways, we ended up self-designing my major, and I truly would not change that experience,” said McAllister, who minored in psychology and sociology & human services to gain a well-rounded understanding of addiction and factors that influence substance use disorders. 

The dean’s list student and member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society has meaningfully contributed to the campus culture — including as a BOLD Women’s Leadership Network scholar, peer mentor, president of the Psychology Club and secretary of the Planned Parenthood Generation Action Club, and by taking part in the Emerging Leaders Program.

Participating in the First-Gen Bridge program set McAllister up for success. “I remember sitting alone in my dorm room after my parents dropped me off, wondering if this was what college would feel like. I was nervous about starting over, unsure of who I would eat with in the dining hall or turn to for academic support,” said the first-generation college student. 

Those feelings of doubt didn’t persist, though. In the First-Gen Bridge program, McAllister formed close connections that provided her with a lasting sense of support and belonging. 

Colby-Sawyer wasn’t initially on her list of schools of interest. McAllister visited campus only because a friend had — unbeknownst to her — signed her up for a tour.

“From the scenic views to the library and the Quad, everything about the environment felt welcoming and comfortable,” she said. “Looking back, that spontaneous visit turned into one of the best decisions I’ve made.”  

McAllister will stay at Colby-Sawyer to pursue a Master of Social Work; she was awarded a Sheldon-Ponder Prize of $15,000 to help pay for her education. The prize goes to eligible Colby-Sawyer seniors admitted to graduate school in the humanities or social sciences. 

Career-wise, McAllister is interested in counseling families to improve relationships and functioning. “I’m especially passionate about addressing the ways mental health, substance use and family dynamics intersect,” she said, “and I hope to play a role in helping families build healthier, more supportive environments.” 

Colby-Sawyer has been a supportive environment for McAllister and sparked her desire to grow personally and intellectually. McAllister said her mom has witnessed that growth. “She has seen me embrace my experiences, navigate challenges and remain strong and positive in a world that isn’t always so.”