2025 Annual Award Winners
SSP International is thrilled to announce the 2025 honorees for the Annual Awards. The awards were conferred at the Alumni Gathering Weekend in San Francisco on November 15, 2025. Congratulations to our award winners and their families for receiving this recognition of their service!
LEGACY AWARD
Steve Cotler ’60
Accepted by Emily Cotler
A visionary leader and dedicated advocate, Steve Cotler recognized the need to transition the Summer Science Program into a nonprofit organization, ensuring its future sustainability and growth. His leadership and foresight transformed the Summer Science Program from a beloved summer program into a thriving educational institution that continues to empower students worldwide.
The Legacy Award, selected by SSPI, honors an alum or friend whose lifetime dedication has deeply supported and enriched the SSPI community.
BEACON AWARD
Dr. Harland Epps TA ‘59, ‘61; AAD ’64, ‘65, ’67; AD ‘66
Accepted by Steve Allen ’77
An original Teaching Assistant and then Academic Director in the Summer Science Program’s early years, Harland Epps played a pivotal role in developing the Astrophysics curriculum that has inspired decades of discovery. A lifelong educator and astronomer, his work helped shape the rigorous, hands-on approach that remains at the heart of SSP International’s mission today.
The Beacon Award, selected by SSPI, celebrates sustained and outstanding service to SSP International and is open to alumni and honorary community members, including faculty, staff, trustees, parents, and guardians.
YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Dr. Emma Louden ’15, TA ’19
Emma Louden is the President of Slooh, where she leads efforts to democratize access to space through the company’s global network of remotely operated telescopes. As a multi-hyphenate astrophysicist, policy and strategy expert, writer, and bookworm, Emma bridges the worlds of cutting-edge science, entrepreneurship, and public engagement. Her experience at the Summer Science Program—where she later served as a TA and a College Link mentor—inspired her career path in astrophysics. Emma completed her Ph.D. at Yale University in 2025.
The Young Alumni Achievement Award, selected through nominations by the alumni community. This award celebrates a Summer Science Program alum under the age of 35 who has made notable early-career accomplishments or created a meaningful impact in their field and/or community. Nominees should embody excellence, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact.