The American Chemical Society (ACS) recently announced the winners of two Dreyfus Foundation-supported awards aimed at diversity in the chemical sciences as part of their 2026 National Award Winners.
The 2026 ACS-Dreyfus Award for Encouraging Underrepresented and Economically Disadvantaged Students into Careers in the Chemical Sciences went to Angel A. MartÃ, Professor of Chemistry, Bioengineering, and Materials Science and NanoEngineering; Chair, Department of Chemistry; and Faculty Director, RESP, at Rice University. It was given “for his outstanding accomplishments in encouraging disadvantaged students into careers in Chemistry and his intense dedication toward promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across STEM.”
The award – established in 1993 to recognize significant accomplishments by individuals in stimulating students, underrepresented in the profession, to elect careers in the chemical sciences and engineering – consists of $5,000 and a certificate. A grant of $10,000 is also made to an eligible non-profit institution, designated by the recipient, to strengthen its activities in meeting the objectives of the award.
The 2026 ACS-Dreyfus Award for Encouraging Women into Careers in the Chemical Sciences went to Dr. Jean Tom, Professor of the Practice, Princeton University and Bristol Myers Squibb, retired. It was given “for exceptional mentoring, advocacy and outreach in the support of increasing the representation of women in the chemical sciences.”
The award – established in 1993 to recognize significant accomplishments by individuals who have stimulated or fostered the interest of women in chemistry, promoting their professional development as chemists or chemical engineers – consists of $5,000 and a certificate. A grant of $10,000 is also made to an eligible non-profit institution, designated by the recipient, to strengthen its activities in meeting the objectives of the award.
Both Dr. Martà and Dr. Tom will be honored at the ACS Spring 2026 Meeting in Atlanta, GA.