2022 Carnegie Science Award Winners

Established in 1997, Carnegie Science Awards have honored the accomplishments of more than 600 scientists, technologists, educators, business leaders, and organizations who are making a difference in Pittsburgh and beyond.

Winners are chosen by a committee of peers — both past awardees and industry leaders — who selected the most deserving innovators whose contributions have led to significant economic or societal benefit in western Pennsylvania.

Congratulations to our 2022 Carnegie Science Award recipients!

Chairman’s Award

John Thornton, Astrobotic Technology, Inc.

Best Interdisciplinary Approach to STEM Education

Pittsburgh DataWorks

Champion for STEM Equity & Inclusion

Arvind Seshan, Droids Robotics

Champion for Sustainability

Mary Ellen Ramage, Borough of Etna

Corporate Leadership

PITT OHIO

Entrepreneur

Dr. Susan Catalano, PhD, CODA Biotherapeutics

Exemplary Educational/Corporate Collaboration

MECCO and Robert Morris University

Innovation

Dr. Eric Lagasse, PharmD, PhD, Pittsburgh Liver Research Center

Most Inspiring Educator

Denny Quinn, Chartiers Valley School District

Junior Division Student

Tai Luangkesorn, Marshall Middle School

Intermediate Division Student

Vanessa Ibrahim, Mary Queen of Apostles School

Senior Division Student

Adhitya Thirumala, Fox Chapel Area High School

Honorable Mentions:

• Best Interdisciplinary Approach to STEM Education –
  • Dr. Kari Kokka, PhD, University of Pittsburgh
• Most Inspiring Educator Award
  • Brandon Grainger, PhD, University of Pittsburgh
  • Diane Turnshek, Carnegie Mellon University