On Mar. 28, 2023, the American Chemical Society awarded The Priestley Medal to Cato T. Laurencin “to recognize distinguished services to chemistry,” the Society’s most prestigious award.

Cato T. Laurencin at the University of Connecticut is recognized “for pioneering, breakthrough work on polymeric materials and polymer composites for biologic use, and for leadership in inclusion, diversity, equity, anti-racism and learning (IDEAL).”

He produced seminal research work and discoveries in patents and papers on polymeric nanofiber technology, ushering in the field of polymeric nanomaterials for tissue regeneration. His work in published papers and patents focusing on polymer-ceramic systems inspired the development of biocomposite materials including interference screws for which he was named “One of the 100 Engineers of the Modern Era” by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers at their centennial celebration.