Submitted photo of Duilia De Mello

(KAIR)--An internationally recognized astrophysicist is named as the recipient of the annual Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award.

According to a release from Amelia Earhart Festival Coordinator Jacque Pregont, Duilia De Mello will receive the 2026 honor during the Amelia Earhart Festival, scheduled for July 17 and 18 in Atchison.

De Mello is an extragalactic astrophysicist known for pioneering work that includes the discovery of Supernova 1997D, research on stellar nurseries beyond galaxies, and contributions to the characterization of what is considered the largest spiral galaxy identified to date.

She is also widely recognized for her leadership and advocacy in astronomy. De Mello recently received the inaugural International Astronomical Union Women in Astronomy STEM Ambassador Recognition Award for her mentoring, outreach, and efforts to promote equity and inclusive environments in science—particularly for girls in underserved communities.

The release notes De Mello previously visited Atchison in August of 2017 during events tied to the total solar eclipse.

As part of the festival, De Mello will share her story on the morning of Saturday, July 18 at 10:30 during the Speaker’s Symposium at Benedictine College’s O’Malley McAllister Auditorium. The presentation is free and open to the public.

She will also be the featured speaker at the Pioneering Achievement Award Luncheon, where the award will be presented at noon in the Benedictine College Cafeteria.

Luncheon tickets are $30 dollars, available online or by calling 913-426-3911.