AMELIA EARHART FESTIVAL

Dr. Duilia De Mello Named 2026 Recipient

ATCHISON, KS — The Atchison Amelia Earhart Foundation is proud to announce that Dr. Duilia De Mello, renowned astrophysicist and former NASA associate scientist, has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award.

Dr. De Mello, a native of Brazil, is a former associate scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and a professor at The Catholic University of America. She has made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of galaxy formation and evolution, and her research using the Hubble Space Telescope has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals.

Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. De Mello is a passionate advocate for women in STEM fields. She founded the nonprofit organization Mulher das Estrelas (Women of the Stars), which inspires young women in Brazil and around the world to pursue careers in science and technology.

"It is an honor to receive an award named for Amelia Earhart, a true pioneer who inspires generations to reach for the stars. Amelia broke barriers and showed the world that determination and courage can take you anywhere—even across oceans. I hope to continue her legacy by encouraging young people, especially women, to pursue their dreams in science and exploration."
— Dr. Duilia De Mello

The Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of Amelia Earhart through their exceptional contributions to aviation, aerospace, or STEM fields, and their dedication to inspiring future generations.

Dr. De Mello will receive the award during the 29th Annual Amelia Earhart Festival in Atchison, Kansas, on July 17-18, 2026. The festival celebrates the life and legacy of Amelia Earhart, who was born in Atchison in 1897.