The College of Sciences hosted its first-ever Distinguished Alumni Awards Celebration to honor eight alumni who embody the Institute’s motto of Progress and Service and reflect the transformative power of an education from Georgia Tech. Held at the Historic Academy of Medicine, the event brought together more than 200 faculty, students, and alumni, including Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera, a College of Sciences alumnus, and Alumni Association President Dene Sheheane.

“A university’s success is measured and reflected in the achievements of its alumni,” notes Cabrera. “It is a great source of pride for Georgia Tech to recognize these College of Sciences alumni and their impressive accomplishments — across the world and at Georgia Tech.”

Six alumni — one from each School — received the Distinguished Alumni Award:

School of Biological Sciences

Jack McCallum, Applied Biology 1966, a surgeon-turned-entrepreneur and educator, was honored for his contributions to medicine, business, and philanthropy. He joked that medical school was easier than Georgia Tech.

School of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Kelly Sepcic Pfeil, M.S. Chemistry 1992, Ph.D. Chemistry 2003, a scientific leader in flavor and sweetener technology, was recognized for her global career and support of women in chemistry. She thanked Tech for supporting her as a young working mother who traveled globally for business while earning her graduate degrees.

School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

Rutt Bridges, Physics 1973, M.S. Geophysical Sciences 1975, a pioneer in seismic software and climate solutions, author, and venture fund owner, was celebrated for his entrepreneurial success and philanthropy. His introduction revealed that he worked for $3.50 a day as a roustabout and well digger before Georgia Tech.

School of Mathematics

Frank Cullen, Math 1973, M.S. Industrial and Systems Engineering 1976,
Ph.D. Industrial and Systems Engineering 1984, a serial entrepreneur and longtime supporter of faculty research, was honored for his business leadership and philanthropic impact. He entered Georgia Tech at just 16 years old — and didn’t leave for 14 more years!

School of Physics

Nathan Meehan, Physics 1975, a globally recognized petroleum engineer, business leader, and educator, was celebrated for his technical leadership and commitment to early-career scientists. His introduction showcased his many professional accolades as well as his self-proclaimed status as the “best BBQ cook of his generation.”

School of Psychology

Margaret Beier, M.S. Psychology 1999, Ph.D. Psychology 2004, now chair of Psychological Sciences at Rice University, was honored for her research on lifelong learning and academic leadership. She thanked the faculty and researchers who inspired and supported her, enabling her to realize her dreams.

The evening also included two special honors:

The Young Scientist Award 

Kristel Bayani Topping, Ph.D. Physiology 2021, a principal researcher at The Home Depot, dedicated her win to her two young daughters and thanked her mentor School of Biological Sciences Professor Lewis Wheaton for helping her become a “better scientist and leader.”

The Impact Award 

John Clark Sutherland, Physics 1962, M.S. Physics 1964, Ph.D. Physics 1967, currently the dean of Science and Mathematics at Augusta University, was recognized for being an exceptional graduate whose sustained engagement, visionary leadership, and strategic support significantly advanced the College’s mission. Sutherland spoke about how far Georgia Tech has come since he was a student and the importance of continuing to invest in the Institute’s future through student support.

“This celebration marks a significant milestone for our College,” says Susan Lozier, dean of the College of Sciences and Betsy Middleton and John Clark Sutherland Chair. “Our alumni are not just a part of our history; they are central to our future. Their leadership, generosity, and engagement support our faculty and inspire our students.”

In her closing remarks, Lozier thanked alumni Paul Goggin, Physics 1991, and Charlie Crawford, Applied Mathematics 1971, for their help in creating the celebration as well as Leslie Roberts, director of Alumni Relations, for “her vision, persistence, and championship of an alumni recognition event.”

The awards presentation concluded with a rousing performance by the Georgia Tech Glee Club and a reception to celebrate the award winners.

“It was an amazing night recognizing eight incredible alumni who have made such a difference in the world,” says Roberts. “What struck me the most about this night was the humility of our honorees. In their speeches, they thanked Georgia Tech for launching their careers and recognized others for their efforts. They are truly an inspiration to the Yellow Jacket community.”