The Weizmann Women & Science Award, created in 1994, is given biennially to an outstanding woman scientist in the U.S. who has made a significant contribution through research in basic or applied science. The award aims to enhance the visibility of women in science, and to provide role models who will motivate and inspire the next generation of young women scientists. The Weizmann award brings recognition to outstanding women scientists, and highlights their achievements in the hope of encouraging more young women and girls to be interested in the sciences.
Ms. Sara Lee Schupf, Chairwoman of the fifteen-member nominating committee, announced the award recipient. Dr. Rita R. Colwell, Director of the National Science Foundation, will present the award on June 3, 2002 at The Rockefeller University, New York City, and Dr. Sally K. Ride, the first American woman in space and a physics professor at the University of California, San Diego, will deliver remarks during the program.
“Dr. Solomon is one of the most outstanding scientists in the U.S.,” said Ms. Schupf, who chairs the award nominating committee comprised of leading scientists from universities, foundations, medical centers and government agencies. “Not only is she an acknowledged leader in the field of atmospheric chemistry, but she is a woman who embodies the importance of inspiring other young women to pursue science.”
Ms. Schupf, who is the namesake of the Sara Lee Corporation, is an active philanthropic leader with a particular interest in advocacy on behalf of connecting women to science.
The Weizmann Institute of Science, in Rehovot, Israel, is one of the world’s foremost centers of scientific research and graduate study. Its 2,500 scientists, students, technicians and engineers pursue basic research in the quest for knowledge and to enhance the quality of human life. New ways of fighting disease and hunger, protecting the environment, and harnessing alternative sources of energy are high priorities at Weizmann.