MRI Researcher to Receive Arthur S. Flemming Award

Oct. 26, 2026 — Dr. Kathryn Keenan is one of seven public servants from various federal agencies who will be honored at the 77th annual Arthur S. Flemming Awards for their exceptional civil service. The winners are recognized for outstanding performance in the disciplines of applied science and engineering, basic science, and leadership and management.

Keenan is a leading expert in quantitative MRI whose work improves the accuracy, repeatability, and reliability of medical imaging. She developed MRI calibration objects used in major clinical trials and advanced methods to validate emerging techniques such as low‑field MRI and Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting. Her innovations will strengthen breast cancer screening, reduce unnecessary biopsies, and expand access to point‑of‑care imaging. She is a PECASE recipient recognized for high‑impact scientific contributions.  

The Arthur S. Flemming Awards are the nation’s oldest and most prestigious award for government service given from outside the government.

The Flemming induction ceremony will take place Nov. 8, 2026, in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Academy of Public Administration’s Annual National Conference.   

The 77th annual Arthur S. Flemming Award recipients are:

Applied Science and Engineering

• Dr. Kathryn Keenan -  National Institute of Standards and Technology

• Dr. Erika A. Sudderth - U.S. Department of Transportation

• Dr. Ruishu F. Wright - National Energy Technology Lab (U.S. Department of Energy)

• Dr. Stephen P. Eckel - National Institute of Standards and Technology

Basic Science

• Dr. Nicholas Butch – National Institute of Standards and Technology

• Dr. Michael J. Gullans – National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Leadership and Management

• Ms. Jan Tyler - U.S. Department of Energy

“For 77 years, the Arthur S. Flemming Awards have recognized the very best of federal public service,” said Dr. Kathryn Newcomer, President of the Flemming Awards Commission and Director of the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration at George Washington University. “This year's honorees exemplify the leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the public good that define excellence in government.”