Margaret Hamilton ’58 to receive honorary Doctor of Science at Commencement

Margaret Hamilton, Earlham College Class of 1958, will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (honoris causa) during this year’s commencement in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to science, technology, and space exploration.

A trailblazer in computer science, Hamilton played a pivotal role in developing the in-flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions — work that has had a lasting impact on modern computing and engineering.

“Earlham has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence, and Margaret Hamilton’s fundamental contributions exemplify that proud legacy,” said President Paul Sniegowski. “She has consistently embodied the curiosity and tenacity of an Earlhamite, and we are thrilled to honor her with this degree. Although she will not be present at the ceremony, the College is proud to celebrate her achievements and enduring influence.”

Hamilton earned her degree in mathematics with a minor in philosophy at Earlham, laying the foundation for a distinguished career at the forefront of innovation. As director of the Apollo Flight Computer Programming team at MIT’s Draper Lab, she led a team of young programmers at a time when computer science was still an emerging field. She later coined the term “software engineering” to help define and legitimize the discipline she helped create.

She went on to found two companies, including Hamilton Technologies, Inc., and continued her pioneering work in software development.

Over her celebrated career, Hamilton has received numerous honors, including NASA’s Exceptional Space Act Award, Earlham’s Outstanding Alumni Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation’s highest civilian honor. She was also featured in a LEGO set celebrating Women of NASA.

A path-breaker in the male-dominated realm of science and technology, Hamilton is a role model for students today and exemplifies the values at the heart of Earlham’s mission.

Commencement will take place Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in Druley Performance Gymnasium and will honor graduates of the undergraduate college, Earlham School of Religion, and Graduate Programs in Education. For more information, visit earlham.edu/commencement.

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About Earlham College 

Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion foster a collaborative learning community that inspires and motivates students with transformative opportunities and experiences so they can become catalysts for good in a changing world. Located in Richmond, Indiana, Earlham is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 100 national liberal arts colleges and offers one of the top 20 classroom experiences in the nation, according to the Princeton Review.