Distinguished Science Alumni Awards

Awards are given to alumni whose work and achievements have made a significant difference in our communities and lives. We are very proud to claim them as part of the Purdue Science family, and we thank them for the valuable contributions they continue to make to our college, the University, and our world.

In so many ways, our distinguished alumni embody the college's mission. Their work and accomplishments are "real world" proof that a Purdue degree in science can lead to professional success and also help to solve some of the enormous challenges facing modern society. They are inspirational role models for us all.

Check out photos from the 2026 awards here!

2026 honorees:

Actuarial Science

• James West - Distinguished Alumni Award

Biological Sciences

• Brian Feth - Entrepreneur Award
• Dr. Katey Einterz Owen - Distinguished Alumni Award

Chemistry

• Dr. Susannah Cox - Early Career Scientist
• James Tarpo Jr. and Margaret M. Tarpo - Philanthropy Award
• Dr. Shane Tichy - Distinguished Alumni Award

Computer Science

• Dr. David Mount - Distinguished Alumni Award

Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences

• Dr. Denton Ebel - Distinguished Alumni Award

Mathematics

• Dr. Nicholas Miller - Distinguished Alumni Award

Physics and Astronomy

• Dr. Nitin Samarth - Distinguished Alumni Award

Statistics

• Robert Baker - Distinguished Alumni Award