The Michele Fluck Award is given annually in honor of Dr. Michele Fluck, an internationally recognized virologist and advocate for women’s equality. The award reflects her legacy of mentorship and dedication to breaking barriers. A University Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University, Dr. Fluck was known for her groundbreaking cancer research, advocacy on women’s advisory committees, and support for young female scientists. Her passion for education, justice, and the arts continues to inspire others through this award.
Nominations close January 31st, 2026. The winner will be announced February 2nd, and awarded at the We Laugh Comedy Show on February 21st, 2026.
Who can be nominated:
Women who work or study in careers that are traditionally male-dominated. Here are some examples of those careers (not limited to the examples below):
- Auto manufacturing workers (assembly line, machine operators)
- Auto mechanics and service technicians
- Construction laborers
- Electricians
- Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters
- Heavy equipment operators
- Truck drivers
- Science and Research
- Welders and fabricators
- Investment Bankers and Stockbrokers
- HVAC technicians
- Mining machine operators (e.g., salt mines)
- Carpenters
- Police officers and detectives
- Firefighters
- Civil and mechanical engineers
- Factory supervisors in industrial plants
- Automotive design engineers
- Utility line workers
- Machinists
Winner must reside, study or work in one of the following counties of Michigan:
- Ingham
- Eaton
- Clinton