Dr. Marylesa Howard, a manager in Diagnostics Research and Material Studies, has won the 2022 Sidney D. Drell Science & Technology Award from the Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) Achievement Awards Committee. The annual award recognizes one individual who exemplifies excellence in the intelligence, homeland security and national security communities.
“If I’ve learned one thing on my journey, it’s to apply yourself and dare to dream,” Dr. Howard said. “Even if your dreams lead you to underground tunnels with hard hats and steel-toed boots. Maybe even especially then. My colleagues are a joy, the work is challenging, and I enjoy knowing I’m contributing to our national security. I love my job, and I’m honored to be recognized with this award.”
The Sidney D. Drell Science & Technology Award is named in memory of Dr. Sidney D. Drell, a groundbreaking theoretical physicist, advocate for nuclear arms control, and expert advisor to presidents of both parties on satellite reconnaissance and other advanced intelligence programs.
“I heartily congratulate Marylesa on this well-deserved recognition,” said Mark W. Martinez, NNSS president. “She is an outstanding scientist and a leader in her field, and has made great contributions to the incredible, cutting edge work happening at the NNSS. We are proud to have her on our team.”
The award was established in 2010 to recognize early achievers and mentors who inspire future leaders. It also recognizes the accomplishments of early- and mid-career professionals and graduate students for innovative scientific or technological research and development whose applications have had, or have the potential to make, significant impacts in intelligence, defense and/or national security.
The 2022 Achievement Awards Ceremony will take place Feb. 16, 2022, in Arlington, Va. The keynote speaker will be Lt. Gen. Scott D. Berrier, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency. The Achievement Awards annually welcomes nearly 250 senior intelligence community leaders from across government, industry and academia.