Professor Yves Gnanou, Dean of the Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, has joined the elite ranks of the French Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur (or the National Order of the Legion of Honor). He was presented the medal in a ceremony held in Paris on June 27, 2013.
This prestigious award honors exceptional individuals who have made major contributions to France and to French culture. The Order is France’s highest distinction and is divided into five classes: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer) and Grand Croix (Grand Cross). It was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802.
Prof. Gnanou joined the Légion d’honneur at the rank of Chevalier, which recognizes at least 20 years of professional activity, including acts of “eminent merit.” Prof. Gnanou received the accolade for his 29 years of service as an outstanding university professor, including serving with distinction as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Research at École Polytechnique in Paris.
Congratulating Prof. Gnanou on his award, KAUST President Prof. Choon Fong Shih said: “This is a significant honor that recognizes Prof. Gnanou’s scientific standing as well as achievements as an academic leader. We are fortunate that he has brought his dedication to excellence by global standards in helping build KAUST as a graduate research university by the Red Sea aspiring for global reach and impact.”