BIO5 recognized for economic development

 The Metropolitan Pima Alliance (MPA) presented its 2009 "Common Ground" award for economic development on Friday, October 16, to the BIO5 Institute. The award was accepted by Gilbert Davidson, member of the BIO5 Business Advisory Board.

"I'm honored to be a part of BIO5's board, and pleased to see the institute recognized for its efforts to attract highly-skilled talent to Pima County," said Davidson, city manager for Marana. "The institute has played a key role in recruiting outstanding scientists to the University of Arizona. Recently, 27 of BIO5's faculty members were selected to receive stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, bringing millions of grant dollars and many jobs to our community. 

"In addition, BIO5's education outreach programs benefit more than 40,000 students and teachers annually. BIO5's leaders recognize the importance of inspiring the next generation of scientists and preparing a skilled workforce here in Southern Arizona."

MPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life and the economic viability of metropolitan Pima County. MPA is led by Walter Hoge, president, and Michael Guymon, Executive Director. The 2009 Common Ground Committee, spearheaded by chairman Steve King of Fidelity National Title, selected the winners. The 2009 Common Ground awards event was held at the Reid Park Zoo.