The College of Sciences has named eight alumni as recipients of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards, recognizing those who have made a lasting impact in their professions, communities, and the world.
“This year’s honorees are incredible trailblazers who have built remarkable careers, demonstrated exceptional leadership, and continue to inspire those who follow in their footsteps,” says Susan Lozier, dean and Betsy Middleton and John Clark Sutherland Chair of the College of Sciences and professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. “It is a privilege to recognize these extraordinary individuals and celebrate the many ways they reflect the strength and spirit of the College of Sciences.”
Honorees will be recognized at the second annual Distinguished Alumni Awards Celebration on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel.
Recognition categories include the Distinguished Alumni Awards, honoring one graduate from each school; the Distinguished Young Scientist Award, recognizing early-career excellence; and the College of Sciences Impact Award, honoring transformative contributions to the College’s mission and future.
“The large response to our call for nominations was a powerful reminder of how deeply our alumni contribute to their fields and communities,” says Director of Alumni Relations Leslie Roberts. “We are excited to recognize this year’s amazing honorees and celebrate the lasting influence they have had both within and beyond Georgia Tech.”
2026 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients
School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Tia Williams
B.S. Earth and Atmospheric Sciences 1996
School of Biological Sciences
Fred Levin, M.D.
B.S. Applied Biology 1972
School of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Belma Erdogan-Haug, Ph.D.
Ph.D. Chemistry 2003
School of Mathematics
Clemmie Whatley, Ph.D.
M.S. Applied Mathematics 1973
School of Physics
Gilbert (Gil) Amelio, Ph.D.
B.S. Physics 1965, M.S. Physics 1967, Ph.D. Physics 1969
School of Psychological and Brain Sciences
Tara Stoinski, Ph.D.
Ph.D. Psychology 2000
Distinguished Young Scientist Award Recipient
Austin Hope
B.S. Psychology 2014
College of Sciences Impact Award Recipient
Jeffrey Leddy
B.S. Physics 1978
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2026 Distinguished Alumni Award honorees
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Laura S. Smith, writer
