The Science Coalition Names Representative Suzan DelBene as 2026 Champion of Science
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Science Coalition (TSC) announced U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene (D-WA-01) as a 2026 Champion of Science, spotlighting her work to expand federal research investments that improve public health, address environmental risks, and accelerate technological progress in Washington state and across the country.
The Champion of Science award distinguishes members of Congress who consistently prioritize basic scientific research in their legislative agendas.
A former technology executive with a background in biology, Representative DelBene brings deep experience in science and innovation to her role as Vice Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. Over more than a decade in Congress, she has backed increased appropriations for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), and advanced policies to strengthen research infrastructure, improve support for graduate and postdoctoral students, invest in emerging software and hardware technologies, and catalyze transportation breakthroughs.
“I’m honored to be recognized as a Champion of Science by The Science Coalition,” said Congresswoman DelBene. “As someone who started their career in medical research, I know firsthand the importance of supporting scientific research and how it can unlock the innovations of tomorrow. Scientific research improves our communities, drives economic growth, and improves people’s lives. I will continue advocating for these important investments in Congress.”
Representative DelBene was jointly nominated for this award by TSC member institutions, the University of Washington (UW) and Washington State University (WSU).
“Congresswoman DelBene has been an invaluable ally to the University of Washington,” said UW President Robert J. Jones, Ph.D. “By helping secure robust funding for NIH and NSF and championing initiatives like the National Landslide Preparedness Act, she helps ensure that the United States remains at the vanguard of scientific discovery.”
“Congresswoman DelBene understands that strong federal investment in research is essential to economic growth, national competitiveness, and healthier communities,” said WSU President Betsy Cantwell, Ph.D. "Her leadership has directly supported Washington State University’s ability to translate discovery into real-world solutions for agriculture, health, technology, and the environment. We are grateful for her continued partnership in advancing science that serves the people of Washington and the nation.”
TSC has honored more than 100 members of Congress as Champions of Science in recognition of their support for federal investments in fundamental scientific research. For over 30 years, honorees have been selected based on their voting records, bill sponsorships, and other activities that advance scientific progress across a wide range of disciplines.
This year’s Champion of Science awards were designed and 3D printed under the direction of Dr. Denis Cormier, Earl W. Brinkman Professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology, a leading TSC member institution.
Visit TSC’s website to learn more about the Champion of Science program.
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About The Science Coalition (TSC)
The Science Coalition is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization comprised of more than 50 of the nation’s leading public and private research universities. It is dedicated to sustaining the federal government’s investment in basic scientific research to stimulate the economy, spur innovation, and drive America’s global competitiveness. Learn more at www.sciencecoalition.org.