The Lenfest Award was established in 2005 to recognize faculty excellence in teaching, research, and mentorship across the Arts and Sciences. It is the highest honor Columbia bestows upon individual faculty, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the rigorous scholarship, creative energy, selfless commitment to students, and dedication to the Columbia community that are the hallmark of Lenfest awardees.
Professor Scharffenberger was awarded the 2026 Lenfest award for her vital contributions to the Department of Classics through her skillful stewardship of its curricula and programs, her exceptional teaching and scholarship of Ancient Greek language and literature, and her deep empathy and care in advising and mentoring her students.
This year’s recipients include world-renowned scholars, groundbreaking artists, researchers on the cutting edge of scientific discovery, and long-time faculty whose ideas and service have profoundly shaped their departments and students. Arts and Sciences would not be the same without these treasured colleagues. Please join us in congratulating Liz for her many contributions and achievements!
