PROVIDENCE, RI - Governor Gina M. Raimondo today received the 2017 Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) Governor of the Year Award in recognition of her leadership and commitment to strengthening the bioscience industry within Rhode Island. BIO is the world's largest trade association representing biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products.
"As Governor, I wake up every morning focused on creating jobs for Rhode Islanders," Raimondo said. "Thanks to our investments in skills training and economic development, our state's biotechnology industry is strong and getting stronger. We will soon break ground on the Wexford Innovation Complex in Providence's I-195 District, and are preparing to launch an innovative workforce program in partnership with the biotechnology industry to provide Rhode Islanders with the skills they need for the biotech jobs we are creating here. I am proud of the progress we've made, and am deeply honored to receive this award."
"Governor Raimondo is a tireless advocate for initiatives that support the unique needs of early-stage companies. She works every day to enhance Rhode Island's biotech growth through her strong support for policies that benefit a pro-jobs environment," said Gary Andres, Senior Executive Vice President of Public Affairs of BIO. "Her leadership on the creation of a major life-sciences campus has provided the foundation for attracting and supporting industry growth. The Governor's leadership in this field will continue to benefit her state, in terms of jobs and innovation, for years to come."
The award was presented to Governor Raimondo at the National Governor's Association Summer Meeting in Rhode Island.