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IEEE’s Most Prestigious Award
Jensen Huang of NVIDIA Named 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor Recipient
Announced during an exclusive media event at CES in Las Vegas, Nevada
The Moment You've Been Waiting For
Jensen Huang, Founder, President, and CEO of NVIDIA, was named the 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor Recipient on 6 January 2026 by IEEE President and CEO Mary Ellen Randall during a special media event at CES in Las Vegas, marking a truly landmark moment on one of the world’s biggest technology stages.
Huang is being recognized for his pioneering leadership and groundbreaking contributions to graphics processing units (GPUs). Under his direction, NVIDIA introduced a programmable GPU in 2001, igniting extraordinary advancements that have transformed entire industries—from computing, research, and medicine to AI, automation, and immersive experiences—deeply influencing how technology improves society.
For more than a century, the IEEE Medal of Honor has honored leaders whose breakthroughs redefine technology and advance society. Now entering its second year with a $2 million prize, the award continues this legacy at the highest level, underscoring IEEE’s commitment to celebrating the visionaries driving the future of technology for the benefit of humanity.
Honors Ceremony
The 2026 IEEE Medal of Honor, along with additional prestigious high-profile IEEE awards, will be formally presented at the IEEE Honors Ceremony on 24 April 2026 in New York City as part of an exclusive celebration recognizing the world’s most influential achievements in engineering and technology. This invitation-only event brings together global leaders, innovators, and visionaries to honor excellence, impact, and contributions that shape the future.
Additional details about the ceremony will be shared closer to the event. Press opportunities related to the Honors Ceremony may be available by request. Please email ieee@dkcnews.com for more information.
Explore all the IEEE Medal of Honor Recipients from past to present and their world-changing contributions.
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About IEEE’s Most Prestigious Award and the Committee’s Selection Process
The IEEE Medal of Honor was established in 1917 to recognize key advances in radio technologies. The Medal of Honor became IEEE’s highest award. Highly regarded worldwide, this award is recognized as one of the most esteemed honors in the science and technology fields.
The Prize
The award consists of a gold medal, a bronze replica, and a certificate. Starting in 2025, the monetary prize will be increased to $2 Million (shared equally among recipients).
Basis for Judging
In the evaluation process, the following criteria are considered: significance of achievement, originality, impact on society, impact on the profession, publications and patents relating to the achievement, and quality of nomination.
Scope
Presented to an individual or team of up to three who have made exceptional contributions or had extraordinary careers in technology, engineering, and science in the IEEE fields of interest.
Nomination Process
The Nomination Period will open from 12 January to 15 June. Nomination forms and endorsement letters must be finalized by 15 June annually.