Purdue Engineering Education Honors Interdisciplinary Engineering Alumni with 2026 Outstanding Alumni Awards

The Purdue University School of Engineering Education (ENE) is proud to recognize two graduates of its Interdisciplinary Engineering (IDE/IDES) program as recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Alumni Award: Christopher P. Somogyi (BSE IDE ’81) and Richard A. Gemeinhart (BSE IDE ’94). Presented at the School’s annual awards banquet, the honor recognizes alumni whose careers reflect leadership, innovation, and meaningful contributions to engineering and society.

Both honorees exemplify the flexibility and impact of Purdue’s Interdisciplinary Engineering program—leveraging cross-disciplinary thinking to build influential careers at the intersection of engineering, science, and human health.

Christopher P. Somogyi (BSE IDE ’81) Biomedical Engineering | Innovation & Entrepreneurship Leader

Christopher “Chris” Somogyi has built a career defined less by staying in one lane and more by refusing to pick just one in the first place. A graduate of Purdue’s Interdisciplinary Engineering program with a concentration in biomedical engineering, Somogyi credits his undergraduate experience with shaping not just his technical foundation, but his mindset. The program’s flexibility allowed him to think across disciplines—an approach that became central to his career. Rather than specializing narrowly, Somogyi developed a reputation as a “translator” between engineering, science, and business. That ability carried him into leadership roles across biotechnology, medical devices, advanced materials, and food technology.

Over more than 25 years, he has worked with organizations such as Stanford University, SRI International, Xerox PARC, and Intellectual Ventures—helping launch companies and guide innovation portfolios. His work has contributed to advancements in tissue engineering, medical devices, and most recently, cultured seafood through BlueNalu. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Somogyi has remained committed to mentoring future engineers. He co-founded a biomedical engineering summer program for high school students, helping them explore career paths early. His journey reflects a core IDE principle: when you combine disciplines, you expand what’s possible.

Read more about Chris Somogyi

Richard A. Gemeinhart (BSE IDE ’94) Biochemical Engineering | Pharmaceutical Science & Research Leadership

Richard “Rick” Gemeinhart’s career sits at the intersection of engineering, biology, and medicine—and it started with a willingness to step off the traditional path. Originally entering Purdue as a pre-med student, Gemeinhart discovered a deeper interest in engineering through hands-on lab experience. The Interdisciplinary Engineering program allowed him to combine chemical engineering, biology, and emerging biomedical concepts, setting the stage for a career in pharmaceutical science. Today, Gemeinhart serves as a faculty researcher and Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Research Integrity Officer at the University of Illinois Chicago. His work focuses on polymer-based drug delivery systems and how materials interact with biological systems. His research has resulted in more than 55 peer-reviewed publications, multiple patents, and an international reputation in the field.

One of his most significant achievements—a drug delivery hydrogel system used in a human patient—represents years of work translating research into real-world impact. In addition to his research, Gemeinhart is a dedicated mentor and academic leader, guiding students across disciplines while advancing research integrity and innovation. His advice to students is simple: take opportunities as they come and don’t be afraid to build your own path.

Read more about Rick Gemeinhart

Photo: ENE hosted a fireside chat with Somogyi and Gemeinhart. Moderated by Justin Hess, Associate Head for Undergraduate Programs, and senior Ethan Gray, the discussion explored their career journeys, the value of interdisciplinary thinking, and advice for students building their own paths.