Ryan Shelby is a 2022 recipient of the Achievement Award, co-sponsored by the UC Berkeley Foundation and the Cal Alumni Association. The Achievement Awards are conferred annually at Berkeley Charter Gala. This text is reprinted from the biographical statement prepared for the event.
Shelby’s essential work provides technical guidance for the design, construction, operations, and maintenance of infrastructure for economic growth, education, health, governance, and sanitation goals.
Prior to his work in Africa, Shelby worked for USAID in Haiti, managing a team that focused on climate-resilient infrastructure, clean energy systems, and disaster risk reduction policies. His work following destructive Hurricane Matthew in 2016 led to the rebuilding of nearly 5,000 homes and roofs in southern Haiti, ensuring that those structures are strong enough to withstand future disasters.
Shelby is a celebrated engineer, diplomat, and community developer whose accomplishments are a glowing testament to his dedication to public service. In 2019, Shelby was awarded the Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal for National Security and International Affairs, given to U.S. government officials who have fostered innovation and provided the greatest benefit to the American people. Two years later, he was named a Power 50 U.S. National Security and Foreign Affairs Leader by the Center for Strategic and International Studies and the Diversity in National Security Network.
This year, Shelby was the proud recipient of the 2022 Mark Bingham Award for Excellence in Achievement by Young Alumni. Named in honor of Mark Bingham ’93 who died on September 11, 2001 on United Airlines Flight 93, this award celebrates those who embody his legacy by recognizing alumni who’ve made significant contributions to their community, country, or the world at large.
Learn more about the Achievement Awards.
