Nobel Laureate and 2026 UW Biology Graduation/UW Commencement speaker Mary Brunkow, '86 (B.A. in Biology) was bestowed the 2026 Alumna Summa Laude Dignata honor at this year's 2026 UW Awards of Excellence ceremony.

The Alumnus Summa Laude Dignatus Award (ASLD) is the highest honor bestowed upon a University of Washington graduate and is presented annually by the UW and UW Alumni Association. It recognizes a legacy of achievement and service built over a lifetime.

Since its inception in 1938, more than 80 alumni who personify the University’s tradition of excellence have received this prestigious honor. The list includes Nobel Prize winners, internationally-recognized scientists, artists, business leaders, educators and many other influential figures.

Mary helped uncover the gene that keeps the immune system in check, opening a new frontier in immunology. Her work has implications spanning autoimmune disease, cancer treatment, and organ transplantation. 

Read more about Mary's unconventional journey from UW student to Nobel Laureate in UW Magazine.

Congratulations, Mary!