Exceptional alumni honoured with prestigious University award

Renowned physicist and science communicator Professor John Dudley has been recognised for his exceptional accomplishments in the University’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Professor Dudley is one of five outstanding graduates to receive the top University honour, to be awarded on 2 May. Now Professor of Physics at Marie and Louis Pasteur University in France, Professor Dudley has made major contributions to the field of optics.

He has published more than 270 journal articles, delivered numerous international lectures on science communication and led initiatives such as the UNESCO International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies 2015. His accolades include the French National Centre for Scientific Research Silver Medal and the 2020 Optical Society of America R. W. Wood Prize.

The University of Auckland awards have been running since 1996 and recognise leading alumni for their significant achievements, contributions to society and their impact on New Zealand and the world.

"This year’s awardees exemplify the University’s commitment to excellence and innovation and highlight the remarkable influence our alumni community has across a broad range of disciplines worldwide," says Mark Bentley, Director of Alumni Relations and Development.

“We are delighted to celebrate their accomplishments in the fields of business, law, science and arts, and look forward to witnessing their continued impact in the years to come.”

The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Awards will be presented at the Taumata ceremony on 2 May at the ASB Waterfront Theatre in Auckland.  The other recipients are: trailblazing sports executive Raelene Castle; Judge of the Supreme Court of New Zealand Justice Ellen France; internationally esteemed contemporary visual artist Reuben Paterson; and acclaimed composer, songwriter and classically trained singer Moses Mackay.