Dr. Bhakta B. Rath, Associate Director of Research at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), was recognized by the Illinois Institute of Technology Alumni Association as the recipient of the 2015 Professional Achievement Award. Dr. Rath heads NRL's Materials Science and Component Technology Directorate.
The award recognizes outstanding achievement in a professional field and honors the alumni whose achievements have brought distinction to themselves as well as credit to the university. This is one of the highest distinctions the university can bestow upon an alumnus. The university presented the award to Dr. Rath at a ceremony on April 24, 2015. Dr. Rath is recognized with many honors and awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award from NRL and the Fred Saalfeld Award from Office of Naval Research, Department of Defense Distinguished Civilian Service Award from Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Distinguished Presidential Rank Award.