UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Acclaimed climate science pioneer Warren Washington made history at Penn State in 1964 by becoming the second African-American to earn a doctorate in meteorology nationwide.

It’s only fitting that his name adorn a building at Penn State’s Innovation Park, the first to be named for a University innovator and pioneer. The newly named Warren M. Washington Building, located at 328 Innovation Blvd., will officially earn its distinction Friday, May 17, in a ceremony featuring Washington and Penn State President Eric Barron. Barron announced last year the building would be named after Washington during a symposium in Washington’s honor.

“We asked the deans to nominate pioneers and innovators so the buildings at Innovation Park have names and not numbers,” Barron said. “I’m very pleased that Warren Washington was the first nominee and will be honored with the first named building. He is an inspiration, an internationally recognized expert in atmospheric sciences and climate research, and a mentor who has long helped individuals live the life within them.”

Read the full story at Penn State News

View the photo gallery from the dedication ceremony at Penn State News