2026 Alumna of the Year: Dr. Janet S. Fender
Janet Fender
2026 AOY Honoree, James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences - Class of 1981
Janet S. Fender has devoted her distinguished career to advancing national security and optical sciences as a scientist in the U.S. Air Force. A proud University of Arizona alumna, she earned master’s and doctoral degrees in optical sciences that laid the foundation for groundbreaking work in imaging, space surveillance and directed energy research.
Over the years, Janet has driven innovation across research, operations and policy, culminating in her role as scientific adviser to the Commander of Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base. She also has served in key technical positions at the Air Force Research Laboratory related to space vehicles and advanced imaging, and her work in directed energy was a foundational element of the Strategic Defense Initiative.
Beyond her federal service, Janet has been a tireless advocate for women in optics and science. Through leadership in professional societies and philanthropic support of scholarships, she inspires and empowers the next generation, especially women with financial need and a passion for public service.
Internationally recognized for her contributions, Janet has authored over 100 publications, holds several U.S. patents and has served on advisory boards for NASA, the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. In 2016, she received the U.S. Presidential Distinguished Service Rank Award, the highest honor awarded to senior federal executives.
For her extraordinary scientific impact, her enduring service and her unwavering commitment to mentorship and equity, the University of Arizona is honored to name Janet Fender the 2026 Alumna of the Year for the Wyant College of Optical Sciences.
Dr. Janet Fender will be honored at the 2026 University of Arizona Alumni of the Year Awards on February 13, 2026, from 2–5 p.m. We are also delighted to welcome Dr. Fender on February 12 for a special presentation during our regularly scheduled colloquium. She will be joined by her friend Dr. Susan Houde‑Walter, former OSC faculty member.
Dr. Fender will share insights from her distinguished career as a civilian scientist with the U.S. Air Force, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of often being the only woman in the room—and how she transformed those experiences into leadership, resilience, and impact.
More details to come - please plan to attend!
