The NAE cited numerous milestones in Windall's career, which it referred to "a remarkable academic career in fluid dynamics combined with the highest levels of public service, and for championing the role of women in engineering." She will receive $2,500 and a gold medallion in recognition of her active involvement in determining U.S. science and technology policy, "especially in relation to women and minorities, and contributing to the enhancement of the relationship between government and universities."
Widnall joined the MIT AeroAstro
faculty in 1964 as MIT's first woman professor of engineering. She was
named an Institute Professor in 1998, the highest honor awarded by MIT
faculty and administration.