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Fact Sheet
National Science Board Vannevar Bush Award
May 7, 2003
Background. The National Science Board (NSB) established the Vannevar Bush Award in February 1980 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the National Science Foundation (NSF). The award is presented to a person who, through public service activities in science and technology, makes outstanding contributions toward the nation and humanity.
History. Responding to a request from President Franklin D. Roosevelt for guidance, Vannevar Bush, the head of the World War II agency for the mobilization of civilian science, recommended in 1945 that a foundation be established by Congress to support research and education in science and to develop national science policy. Five years later, Congress implemented many of Bush's recommendations by passing a bill creating NSF. President Harry S Truman signed the bill into law on May 10, 1950. Establishing the Vannevar Bush Award was the NSB's way to honor Bush's unique contributions to public service.
Purpose. The Vannevar Bush Award is given annually to a senior statesperson in science or technology. The award is signified by a medal in Bush’s likeness and recognizes the recipient’s public service contributions in addition to calling attention to the important role science and technology play in improving our way of life.
Criteria. Nominees must be U.S. citizens, considered senior statespersons in science and technology, with a distinguished record in public service. Individuals must have been pioneers in a chosen field, displaying leadership and creativity, while inspiring others to distinguished careers, and contributing to the welfare of the nation and humanity.
-NSF-
Media Contacts
William C. Noxon, NSF (703) 292-8070 wnoxon@nsf.gov
Program Contacts
Susan Fannoney, NSF (703) 292-8096 sfannone@nsf.gov
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency that
supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and
engineering, with an annual budget of $6.06 billion. NSF funds reach all 50
states through grants to over 1,900 universities and institutions. Each year,
NSF receives about 45,000 competitive requests for funding, and makes over
11,500 new funding awards. NSF also awards over $400 million in
professional and service contracts yearly.
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Useful NSF Web Sites:
NSF Home Page: http://www.nsf.gov
NSF News: http://www.nsf.gov/news/
For the News Media: http://www.nsf.gov/news/newsroom.jsp
Science and Engineering Statistics: http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/
Awards Searches: http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/
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