John Hennessy, the former president of Stanford University, has been selected to receive the National Science Board’s 2024 Vannevar Bush Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to science and technology throughout their lives.
Dario Gil, chair of the External Engagement Committee and senior vice president and director of IBM research, expressed his excitement about Hennessy being chosen for this honor. He highlighted Hennessy’s groundbreaking work in computer architecture and his commitment to developing the future STEM workforce. These values align with those of Vannevar Bush, a prominent figure who led the U.S Office of Scientific Research and Development during World War II and played a key role in establishing the National Science Foundation.
In a statement released by the NSB, Hennessy expressed his passion for lifelong learning, echoing Bush’s belief that science is the new frontier with countless questions waiting to be answered, especially regarding the mysteries of life and the universe. Currently, Hennessy holds positions as chairperson of Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, and Shriram Family Director of Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford University. The Vannevar Bush Award will be formally presented to him on May 1, 2024 at the National Science Foundation Awards Gala taking place at Renwick Gallery in Washington D.C..
