President Drake stands with Julie Packard, holding the UC Presidential Medal.

UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D., has awarded the UC Presidential Medal to UC Santa Cruz alum Julie Packard in recognition of her work to safeguard the world’s marine ecosystems and her steadfast support of the university and its role as a leader in ocean conservation science.

The Presidential Medal is the university’s highest honor. UC President Drake bestowed it on Packard during the 50th anniversary celebration of the UC Santa Cruz Foundation, held June 8.

In announcing the award, Drake lauded Packard for her longstanding commitment to UC Santa Cruz and the UC system, noting that her “transformative philanthropy” has allowed the university to turn scientific research into practical environmental solutions, while inspiring generations of students to study — and protect — the global ocean.

“Your contributions to environmental stewardship, and your unwavering dedication to the University of California and the UC Santa Cruz campus, have made a tremendous impact on the world,” President Drake said. “Your support has helped to ensure that UC Santa Cruz can remain on the cutting edge of teaching, research and public service — and that it can continue to make a real difference in the communities we serve.”

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