Colby College

WATERVILLE — Four local residents were among 52 students at Colby College who were elected this spring to membership in Phi Beta Kappa. Membership in the society is one of the highest academic honors an undergraduate student can achieve, according to a news release from the college.

C. William Qualey IV, of Norridgewock, Maine, is a member of the class of 2016. Qualey, who is majoring in history and German studies, is the son of Charles and Patricia Qualey, of Norridgewock, and attended Skowhegan Area High School.

Kara M. Witherill, of Readfield, is a member of the class of 2015. Witherill, who is majoring in global studies, is the daughter of Donald and Donna Witherill, of Readfield, and attended Maranacook Community School.

Xiaojie Chen, of Wilton, is a member of the class of 2016. Chen, who is majoring in economics with a concentration in financial markets and mathematics, is the son of Liting and Sumei Chen, of Wilton, and attended Mount Blue High School.

Lucas L. Fortier, of Skowhegan, is a member of the class of 2015. Fortier, who is majoring in government, is the son of Mark and Jayne Fortier, of Skowhegan, and attended Skowhegan Area High School.

Founded in 1813, Colby is one of America’s most selective colleges. Serving only undergraduates, Colby offers a rigorous academic program rooted in deep exploration of ideas and close interaction with world-class faculty scholars. Students pursue intellectual passions, choosing among 56 majors or developing their own. Independent and collaborative research, study abroad, and internships offer robust opportunities to prepare students for postgraduate success. Colby is home to a community of 1,850 dedicated and diverse students from around the globe. Its Waterville, Maine, location provides access to world-class research institutions and civic engagement experiences.

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