Nineteen individuals, including science educator and advocate Bill Nye, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, during a ceremony at the White House Saturday.
The award recognizes exceptional contributions to the prosperity, values, and security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal achievements.
Best known as Bill Nye the Science Guy, Nye has influenced generations of students through his educational television show. His show combines humor and scientific facts to make science accessible to children and adults alike.
Born in Washington, D.C., and later relocating to Seattle, Nye gained prominence through his TV show and appearances on the sketch comedy show Almost Live! He holds a mechanical engineering degree from Cornell University and has contributed to scientific advancements, including work on the Mars Rover.
Beyond television, Nye has dedicated himself to science advocacy. He serves as CEO of the Planetary Society and champions space exploration, environmental stewardship, and science literacy. He has also authored several books to further inspire and educate audiences.
Along with Bill Nye, the other 18 recipients were:
Chef José Andrés, singer Bono, Ash Carter (posthumous) served as the 25th Secretary of Defense, Secretary Hillary Clinton, actor Michael J. Fox, entrepreneur Tim Gill, conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, activist Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous), retired basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson, former Attorney General Robert Francis Kennedy (posthumous), fashion designer Ralph Lauren, soccer star Lionel Messi, businessman George Romney (posthumous), businessman David Rubenstein, philanthropist George Soros, director George Stevens, Jr., actor Denzel Washington, and fashion icon Anna Wintour.
President Biden emphasized that all 19 recipients represent great leadership, faith, and decency, and their extraordinary contributions have made both America and the world better places.
©2025 Cox Media Group
