Parker’s passion for the sport has led her to compete separately from the team as well, both in single and doubles sculling with the Charles River Scullers. Parker finished second in the 2016 U23 World Trials doubles race after finishing third in the 2015 rendition of the U23 World singles. Parker also won the Collegiate Small Challenge in the singles event last fall while representing the Black and White.
While her rowing accomplishments are indicative of her athletic ability, Parker’s academic achievements are equally noteworthy.
Following her freshman year at Harvard, Parker was awarded the Detur Book Prize. From the Latin phrase—detur digniori—meaning, “to the more worthy, let it be given,” this historic accolade is reserved for students at Harvard who maintain a perfect GPA during their first year of college. By keeping up such a remarkable academic track record, Parker displayed that she does not leave her work ethic at the boathouse.
In her sophomore year, Parker declared her concentration in Integrative Biology, an area in which she would continue to excel. She thrived academically throughout the year and into her junior year. In the spring of junior year, she was inducted as one of only 24 juniors into the venerable Phi Beta Kappa honors society.
“As much passion as Abba has for rowing she also has for everything else she does,” said Benduski. “I believe all of the young rowers on our team look up to her and admire her commitment to all of her endeavors.”
Now, in the midst of her senior year, Abigail Parker looks to keep improving in the spheres of rowing and academia, where she has already attained such widespread success. With preparations for the 52nd Head of the Charles already underway, the Radcliffe rowers look to put up a fast time on its very own whirlwind 5 km home course.
For Parker, in what will be her ultimate Head of the Charles donning the Black and White as an undergrad, this race will be especially meaningful.
—Staff writer Patrick J. Anderson can be reached at patrickanderson@college.harvard.edu.