We are thrilled to announce that distinguished MCB professor Catherine Dulac was honored with the title of Officer of the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest civilian award. The prestigious medal was presented to her by the French Ambassador at a special ceremony hosted by the French Consul in Cambridge, MA, on October 26, 2024.
(l to r) Mustafa Soykurt (Consul General of France in Boston), Catherine Dulac, and Laurent Bili (the French Ambassador to the United States)
The Legion d’Honneur, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, recognizes individuals for their extraordinary contributions to France and the broader global community in various fields such as science, arts, and culture. Being named an Officer is an exceptional distinction, reflecting Dulac’s groundbreaking contributions to neuroscience and her influence as a leader in her field.
“To be bestowed Officer of the Legion d’Honneur by my home country is an amazing honor,” says Dulac. This recognition also has a personal and humbling significance for her because her paternal grandfather was awarded this extreme honor for military valor during World War I. “It is rather astonishing that I would get such recognition for, instead, doing what I love to do: basic research and teaching!,” she adds.
Receiving the award in Boston carried special significance for Dulac. “It was very important for me that not only my friends but also department and lab members who have contributed so much to my scientific success could attend the award ceremony, which was generously hosted by the French Consul in Boston.”
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Catherine Dulac with her guests
One of those delighted to attend the ceremony was MCB Chair Rachelle Gaudet. “Catherine serves as a role model for so many of us – me included – as someone who contributes to science by both her fascinating trailblazing research and her leadership and service,” she says. “ I am continually impressed that she makes the time to contribute to scientific institutions both in France and in the US, and how in doing so, she fosters interactions between the two countries.”
