Andy Harris Receives UA Alumni Achievement Award

The UA Alumni Association presented its Alumni Achievement Award to Andy Harris, a 1987 chemical engineering graduate, at the university's 155th Commencement on May 10. The association has given the award since 1943 to recognize outstanding accomplishments or distinguished service to the UA, the Alumni Association or one's community or profession.

Since his graduation, Harris has excelled in the high stakes and often turbulent specialty chemicals industry, earning a reputation for personal and professional integrity and leadership. He has successfully led several corporations, including Accella Performance Materials and Syrgis, and currently is the CEO of Vantage Specialty Chemicals, a leading producer of naturally derived specialty ingredients.

Throughout his career, Harris has remained a loyal Wildcat. He helped the UA develop the Wildcat Mentor Society, a best-in-class program for students and alumni. The program aims to help mentees build their professional network, strengthen their UA alumni network, thrive through personal challenges and create deep, meaningful relationships with mentors that last beyond the program.