Donald A. Telesca of Waterbury, Conn., honored for work in physics and music | Press Releases

Donald A. Telesca of Waterbury, Conn., was honored for his work in physics and music at Fairfield University's College of Arts & Sciences Awards Ceremony. A physics and music major, Donald received the Award for Academic Excellence in Physics for his performance in both the classroom and in research. The Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement in Music, was presented to him for demonstrating exceptional growth and understanding in the history, theory, and performance of music.

A Presidential Scholar during his four years at Fairfield, Donald was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest and most prestigious academic honor society, and Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit national honor society.

As a physics major, he participated in undergraduate research at Fairfield and last summer at Columbia University in a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates Program.

With a second major in music, Donald studied the complexities of music theory and composition. For six semesters, he worked on building this theoretical knowledge, coming to terms with the interaction of the many components of music, especially harmony and timing.

Donald performed with both the University Orchestra and Jazz Ensemble and was president of the Glee Club, where he was a member of the Chamber Singers.

Donald graduated magna cum laude on May 20, with a bachelor of science degree. In the fall he will enter Columbia University where he will be working towards a Ph.D. in physics, while continuing his interest in music.