In this Q&A, we speak with Fiona Garvey, a fourth-year majoring in International Studies and Sociology, who was selected as a 2025 recipient of the Claremont Conference Outstanding Paper distinction.
Jackson School undergraduate Fiona Garvey at the 22nd Claremont Conference, April 3-4, 2025.
Name: Fiona Garvey
Degree: B.A. in International Studies and Sociology
Expected to graduate in: Spring 2025
Hometown: Chagrin Falls, Ohio
What was the topic of your paper for the Claremont Conference?
My research covered the use of imperial feminism in colonial Algeria and how it relates to contemporary debates over veiling in France. The paper is titled: “A History Unveiled: The French Civilizing Mission in Algeria and Contemporary Headscarf Debates.”
What interests you most about this topic?
What interests me most about this topic is its complexity and how it has evolved over time. I’m especially fascinated by how states have exploited concepts like gender equality to justify domination and cultural assimilation. Understanding how this has been historically allows us to look critically at the past and apply those lessons to inform future efforts in reconciling diverse cultures.
What was your reaction to receiving the outstanding paper distinction?
I was genuinely surprised and very honored to have been chosen for the outstanding paper award. After attending several student panels at the conference, I was amazed by the quality and depth of the research that they presented. Everyone was incredibly talented and knowledgeable in their fields, which makes me even more grateful that my paper was selected as a standout among such an impressive group.
How will this distinction help your goals and career path?
Having this paper published will already be achieving one of my goals. Beyond that, however, I believe that this distinction will serve as a solid example of the research, writing, and presenting skills I have gained as a student at UW. Hopefully, this will open opportunities for me to use these skills, whether in pursuing graduate studies or advancing my future career.
Anything else you’d like readers to know?
It’s truly a great experience! Regardless of whether you win an award or not, it is so rewarding to be surrounded by so many intelligent people from all across the country who have similar passions and interests to yours.