The Norman Maclean Faculty Award, named after a notable University of Chicago professor, honors those who exhibit a commitment to teaching and student development, similar to its namesake. As part of the 2025 Alumni Awards program, Stephen G. Pruett-Jones and Donald G. York will receive this prestigious accolade for their significant contributions to education and student life at the University of Chicago.
The awards are presented by the UChicago Alumni and the Alumni Board, which have also recognized seven alumni for their professional accomplishments and service to the university. The awardees will be honored during Alumni Weekend from May 1-4.
Established in 1997, the awards commemorate Norman Maclean, the celebrated author who taught at the university for 40 years. This year, the focus is on Pruett-Jones and York for their remarkable educational impact.
Stephen G. Pruett-Jones is a recognized expert in evolutionary biology and avian behavioral ecology, having conducted field research on wild bird species for over 45 years. His work has mentored more than 125 students. Known for his research on various bird species, he has also edited works including "Naturalized Parrots of the World." Having joined UChicago's faculty in 1988, Pruett-Jones taught until 2022 and received awards for teaching excellence, shaping the trajectory of upcoming scientists.
Donald G. York, the Horace B. Horton Professor Emeritus in Astronomy and Astrophysics, is credited with foundational contributions to studying the interstellar medium and distant galaxies. He was instrumental in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, a major astronomical project that revolutionized modern observational astronomy, earning him the George Van Biesbroeck Prize in 2022. York's legacy, however, is deeply tied to student mentorship, guiding learners from high school to doctoral levels and influencing new advancements in space science.
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