Wrighton Award Recipients

An honor that recognizes alumni who exemplify global leadership, academic excellence, and a sustained commitment to the mission of the Academy.

Introducing Dr. Fernando Lopez, recipient of the 2023 Mark S. Wrighton Award for McDonnell Academy Alumni—an honor that celebrates distinguished alumni who demonstrate outstanding leadership, global engagement, and continued dedication to the values of the McDonnell Academy. In this conversation with Laura Benoist, director of the McDonnell Academy, Dr. Lopez discusses his time as a […]

Meet Gülcan Yayla, the 2022 recipient of the Mark S. Wrighton Award for McDonnell Academy Alumni. This award honors alumni whose work reflects the Academy’s core values of international collaboration, impactful leadership, and long-term engagement with the WashU community. In her conversation with Laura Benoist, director of the McDonnell Academy, Gülcan shares how her experiences […]

Introducing Dr. Ming Zu, honored as the 2021 recipient of the Mark S. Wrighton Award for McDonnell Academy Alumni. This award recognizes alumni who have made meaningful contributions in their fields while embodying the Academy’s vision of global citizenship and lifelong connection. In this interview with Kurt Dirks, director of the McDonnell Academy, Ming reflects […]

Meet Dr. Chen Li, the inaugural recipient of the Mark S. Wrighton Award for McDonnell Academy Alumni in 2019. As the first honoree, Dr. Li set a powerful example of global impact, academic excellence, and enduring commitment to the McDonnell Academy’s mission. In this conversation with Kurt Dirks, director of the McDonnell Academy, Dr. Li […]