“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