Aloian Scholars

Two Harvard seniors are honored for improving House life.

Karl Kmiecik ’10, of Cabot House and Augusta, Georgia, and Kirsten E. M. Slungaard ’10 of Eliot House and Saint Paul, Minnesota, are this year’s David Aloian Memorial Scholars, and will be honored at the fall dinner of the Harvard Alumni Association in October. The scholarships, established in 1988 to honor the late David Aloian ’49, a former HAA executive director and master of Quincy House, and his wife, Mary “Mimi” Aloian, are awarded to two seniors who have made unique contributions to their Houses and to undergraduate life.

Kmiecik, a history and science concentrator, is “a friend to all” who organizes multiple formals, at least a dozen study breaks and stein clubs, and a lively Dutch Auction that raises money for student events. He was instrumental in Cabot’s three-year drive to win the Green Cup (for greatest reduction in energy consumption), and serves on the House tutor interview committee. Kmiecik is also president of the Harvard ROTC Association, a volunteer for the Peer Health Exchange, and a member of  his department’s student-faculty committee.  

Kirsten Slungaard, an English concentrator, has been a driving force behind numerous Eliot House initiatives. She spearheaded the renewal of its Grille, a popular late-night gathering spot; as its manager, she organizes study breaks and hires and trains employees, among other duties. A founding member of the Eliot Writing Circle, she is an aspiring professional writer, and a sound supporter of others’ creative endeavors. And as a member of the Eliot Boat Club, she rises early most mornings to contribute to Eliot’s dominance in intramural crew. 

Related topics

You might also like

Government Seeks More Harvard Admissions Data

Justice Department says it needs proof that Harvard is complying with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling.

Harvard’s Productivity Trap

What happened to doing things for the sake of enjoyment?

Harvard Faculty Group Proposes Limits on A Grades

The grade inflation measure requires a full faculty vote, expected in the spring.

Most popular

The True Cost of Grade Inflation at Harvard

How an abundance of A’s created “the most stressed-out world of all.”

Harvard’s Epstein Probe Widened

The University investigates ties to donors, following revelations in newly released files.

Why Men Are Falling Behind in Education, Employment, and Health

Can new approaches to education address a growing gender gap?

Explore More From Current Issue

Four Labrador puppies—two black and two yellow—sitting in green grass.

What Do Puppies Know?

Canine capabilities emerge early and continue into adulthood.

Three climbers seated on a snowy summit, surrounded by clouds, appearing contemplative.

These Harvard Mountaineers Braved Denali’s Wall of Ice

John Graham’s Denali Diary documents a dangerous and historic climb.

Graduates celebrate joyfully, wearing caps and gowns, with some waving and smiling.

Inside Harvard’s Most Egalitarian School

The Extension School is open to everyone. Expect to work—hard.