John Hennessy: A Pioneer in Computer Architecture and STEM Education Receives Prestigious Vannevar Bush Award

Former Stanford president receives prestigious National Science Board award

John Hennessy, the former president of Stanford from 2000 to 2016, has been selected as the recipient of the National Science Board’s (NSB) 2024 Vannevar Bush Award. The award, named in memory of Vannevar Bush, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to science and technology throughout their lives. Dario Gil, chair of the Board’s External Engagement Committee and senior vice president and director of IBM research, expressed excitement about honoring Hennessy with this prestigious award.

Hennessy is a renowned figure in the field of computer architecture and has made significant contributions to science and technology. In his response to receiving the award, Hennessy emphasized the importance of addressing outstanding questions about life and the universe, referencing Bush’s belief that science is the gateway to new frontiers. He also highlighted his commitment to developing the future science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce.

Currently, Hennessy holds positions as chairman of Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, and as the Shriram Family Director of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford. The formal presentation of the Vannevar Bush Award to Hennessy will take place on May 1, 2024, at the National Science Foundation Awards Gala at the Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C.

The Daily reached out to Hennessy for his thoughts on receiving this esteemed honor and will update with any response.

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