Lindsay Benster of Mercer Island earned the distinction of First Honors as a result of her academic performance for fall 2016. This recognition is awarded by the College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Diego to full-time undergraduate students who earn a grade point average of 3.65 or higher. This is Benster’s fourth consecutive First Honors award. The university’s dean encourages awardees to apply for nationally competitive scholarships, such as the Fulbright, Rhodes or Goldwater programs.

Benster is a senior in behavioral neuroscience and was also selected as captain of the university’s women’s cross country/track team.