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.
Gil praised Hennessy for his groundbreaking work in computer architecture and his commitment to developing the future science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce, noting that these accomplishments embody the values of Vannevar Bush. He also highlighted the significant impact Hennessy’s research has had on the national economy and security.
Vannevar Bush, 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, is a renowned figure in the field of science and technology. In his response to receiving the award, Hennessy expressed his passion for continuous learning and exploration, referencing Bush’s belief that science is the gateway to new frontiers and emphasizing the importance of addressing outstanding questions about life and the universe.
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 has reached out to Hennessy for his thoughts on receiving this esteemed honor and will update with any response.