The James Goodwin Greek Prize was established in 1884 by the wife of James J. Goodwin. It is offered to students of Greek who attain excellence in Greek language studies, and no prize is awarded if such excellence cannot be found among the work offered.

James J. and Francis Goodwin wrote a letter to the Trustees in June 1864 stipulating the terms of the fund on Mrs. Goodwin’s behalf. The principal sum of the prize endowment was $1,000, which was competed for by students who underwent an examination devised by faculty. In some years, there was a first and second prize offered.

The Goodwin Greek Prize was first awarded to a student on June 18, 1897. It is still awarded today, though its configuration has changed. As of 2024, there are two Goodwin Prizes for Greek: one for Advanced Greek Language, and one for the Study of Ancient Greek Culture. The Goodwin Prize for the Study of Greek Culture is granted on the basis of an essay contest, and the award funds J-Term and summer study away opportunities.

Trinity College Bulletin Catalog Issue, 2023-2024.

Trinity College Trustees Minutes, Extracts from the Record: Various Financial Gifts, Funds, Scholarships, Trusts, etc., 1908-01-01.

Trinity College Bulletin, October 1907.

The Trinity Tablet, 1897-06-22.