IRI Annual Conference Awards



We are thrilled to share the exciting news of the remarkable achievements and leadership of our esteemed IRI members and individuals who have been honored with prestigious awards. These accolades acknowledge their outstanding contributions in the fields of innovation, sustainability, and corporate citizenship. The Annual Conference will serve as the grand platform for celebrating these remarkable accomplishments.

2023 Awards Winners

Alexa Dembek

The IRI is proud to announce that Dr. Alexa Dembek, Chief Technology & Sustainability Officer for DuPont, has been named the recipient of the IRI Innovation Leadership Award. Throughout her career, Dr. Dembek has been instrumental in strengthening the intersections of DuPont’s business, innovation and sustainability strategy. For Dr. Dembek, DuPont’s transformation as a premier multi-industrial company and its sustainability journey are two sides of the same coin. Her visionary work has been instrumental in driving the company’s progress towards achieving its ambitious 2030 sustainability goals, and as well as inspiring other IRI member organizations to adopt and chart their own sustainable innovation journeys.

Michelman has been bestowed with the prestigious IRI’s Excellence Award in Corporate Citizenship, acknowledging their outstanding commitment to social responsibility and making a positive impact on society. This recognition highlights Michelman’s exemplary efforts in integrating sustainable practices, promoting diversity and inclusion, and actively contributing to the betterment of communities. Through their corporate citizenship initiatives, Michelman sets a remarkable example of responsible business practices, demonstrating their dedication to creating a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.


Lam Research has been honored with the esteemed IRI’s Excellence Award for Culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, celebrating their exceptional commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. This recognition highlights Lam Research’s remarkable efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across their organization, cultivating a culture where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered. Through their proactive initiatives, Lam Research demonstrates a strong dedication to embracing diversity, creating equal opportunities, and nurturing an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives.

The Lubrizol Corporation has been honored with the prestigious IRI’s Excellence Award in Digital and Technological Innovation, recognizing their outstanding achievements in leveraging digital advancements and technological innovation to drive transformative change. This accolade underscores Lubrizol’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation, harnessing the power of technology to revolutionize their industry. Through their cutting-edge digital solutions and pioneering technologies, Lubrizol has demonstrated exceptional leadership in embracing digital transformation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering superior value to their customers. Their dedication to driving innovation in the digital realm sets a benchmark for excellence in the industry.

DuPont has been honored with an IRI’s Excellence Award for Member Engagement, recognizing their exceptional efforts in fostering strong and meaningful connections with their members. This prestigious accolade highlights DuPont’s dedication to actively engaging and supporting their community, fostering collaboration, and promoting valuable interactions among members. Their commitment to excellence in member engagement sets a benchmark for industry leadership and showcases their commitment to fostering a thriving and vibrant community.

PPG Industries has been bestowed with the prestigious IRI’s Excellence Award in Scientific Advancement, recognizing their remarkable contributions and breakthroughs in the field of scientific research. This esteemed accolade highlights PPG Industries’ relentless pursuit of scientific excellence and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. Through their groundbreaking discoveries, pioneering methodologies, and significant advancements in scientific understanding, PPG Industries has demonstrated exemplary leadership in driving scientific progress. Their dedication to advancing the frontiers of science has not only contributed to their industry but has also had a profound impact on society as a whole. The Excellence Awards in Scientific Advancement celebrate PPG Industries’ significant achievements and their role as a trailblazer in the scientific community.