The University of Cincinnati Alumni Association announced on April 14 that it will host its annual Alumni Celebration during Alumni Week, from April 13 to 18, featuring a community art project to commemorate this year’s group of alumni honorees. The event is scheduled for April 16 at the First Financial Center (Cincinnati Convention Center), where 18 alumni will be recognized for their innovation and impact across various fields.
The celebration highlights the achievements of Vinod Dham, CEAS ’77, who will receive the William Howard Taft Medal for Notable Achievement, the association’s highest honor. Dham is known as the “Father of the Pentium Chip” for his work in semiconductor development and has over four decades of experience in technology and venture capital. He was named one of the top executives in his industry and was recently featured at the Smithsonian among Indian Americans who have shaped America. In 2025, he received India’s Padma Bhusan award for contributions to science and engineering.
Jennifer Heisey, UC’s chief alumni officer, said: “UC alumni demonstrate innovation and excellence in the widest range of disciplines while serving people around the world, and our 2026 honorees personify this institutional impact. Through their expertise, leadership and passion for their work, they make the world a better place. In the process, they reflect alumni success at the highest level, and we’re proud to recognize them this April during Alumni Week.”
A mural commissioned by UCAA from Chroma Projects will be unveiled in April on a building at 1430 Vine Street in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. The artwork honors all recipients from this year’s celebration and will remain on display through March 2027.
Other award recipients include Thomas D. Cassady (Robert E. Dobbs Distinguished Service Award), Padma Chebrolu (Marian A. Spencer Mosaic Award), Ryan C. Marable (Jeffrey Hurwitz Young Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award), along with representatives from each college within UC.
This recognition event aims to highlight both individual achievement among graduates as well as collective influence across communities locally and globally.
