Celebrate Invention

Celebrating the Impact of Michigan Innovation.

Thursday, September 24, 2026 | 3-6pm | Michigan Union

Celebrate Invention is an annual event that honors University of Michigan inventors and the growing impact of U-M innovations.

Event highlights include demonstrations from promising U-M startups, discussion panels featuring prominent inventors and alumni, networking opportunities and the Distinguished University Innovator of the Year Award presentation ceremony.

Event Schedule:

3-4pm: Distinguished University Innovator of the Year Presentation & Panel

4-6pm: Networking Reception

Celebrate Invention 2026 is hosted in partnership with Ann Arbor Spark and a2Tech360.
Click here to learn more about a2Tech360.

2026 Distinguished University Innovator of the Year: H. David Humes, M.D.

In recognition of the impact of this work developing the Selective Cytopheretic Device, H. David Humes, M.D. is being awarded this year’s Distinguished University Innovator of the Year. The award is the highest honor for U-M faculty members who have developed transformative ideas, processes or technologies and shepherded them to market for broad societal impact. It was established in 2007 and is supported by endowments from the Office of the Vice President for Research and the Stephen and Rosamund Forrest Family Foundation.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Humes and the impact of his work