The Georgia Institute of Technology has announced that José Andrés, chef, author, and humanitarian, will receive the 2026 Ivan Allen Jr. Prize for Social Courage. The prize is awarded to individuals who demonstrate moral courage at significant personal risk and make a substantial impact on society.
José Andrés is known for his compassion and culinary achievements. He has received several honors including the National Humanities Medal, the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Originally from Spain, Andrés is also an Emmy Award-winning television personality, New York Times bestselling author, educator, two-star Michelin recipient, and has been named twice among TIME magazine’s “100 Most Influential People.” In 2010, he founded World Central Kitchen after an earthquake in Haiti to help cook meals for those affected by disaster.
Ángel Cabrera, president of Georgia Tech, commented on Andrés’ selection: “Chef José Andrés’ leadership journey inspires all of us to try to make a difference in the world through whatever we know best. He built a successful restaurant business and became one of the most renowned chefs of our time — yet, he also found the courage, time, and resources to create an organization that provides freshly cooked meals to victims of war and natural disaster.
“José and his team at World Central Kitchen regularly risk their lives to help restore human dignity and rebuild community amid gunfire and rubble. Georgia Tech is proud to present this award to a man whose moral compass never wavered and who epitomizes the spirit of the Ivan Allen Jr. Prize for Social Courage.”
The Ivan Allen Jr. Prize for Social Courage was created in 2010 in honor of Ivan Allen Jr., former Atlanta mayor and Georgia Tech graduate known for his leadership during the Civil Rights Movement. The annual award recognizes those who show exceptional courage regarding social issues despite risks to their careers or lives. Previous recipients include John Lewis, Andrew Young, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Christiane Amanpour, and María Corina Machado.
Supported by a grant from the Wilbur and Hilda Glenn Foundation, the prize comes with a $100,000 stipend. A ceremony honoring Andrés will be held on March 16, 2026 at Georgia Tech’s campus. Additional information can be found at ivanallenprize.gatech.edu.
