North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper Named BIO’s Governor of the Year

BIO recognizes Governor Cooper’s leadership in biotechnology & innovation

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization awarded Roy Cooper, Governor of North Carolina, with its 2020 Governor of the Year Award. Governor Cooper was presented the award virtually at NCBIO’s 2020 Annual Meeting.

BIO’s annual award recognizes governors for leadership in public service, commitment to public health, and dedication to advancing biotechnology in their state.

“Innovations in life sciences are transforming the way we approach treating diseases, environmental sustainability and food production,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolina biotechnology companies have led the way to getting us faster diagnostic testing, treatments and new vaccines as we work towards curing and preventing diseases.”

“On behalf of BIO, I am proud to honor Governor Cooper’s steadfast support of the scientists and researchers who make up North Carolina’s life sciences community,” said Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath, President & CEO of BIO. “Good public policy and strong leaders are critical to delivering the full promise of biotechnology. We are fortunate to have a partner in Governor Cooper as he works to expand opportunities in the biosciences in the Tar Heel state. His leadership has been instrumental to North Carolina’s role in developing new cures and treatments for patients and building a sustainable future.”

“Governor Cooper has been a dedicated supporter of the life sciences in North Carolina. Under his leadership, we have seen strong capital investment leading to new economic growth in our state,” said Sam Taylor, President of NCBIO. “From developing new agricultural technologies to manufacturing life-saving medicines, North Carolina is at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. I applaud Governor Cooper on receiving BIO’s 2020 Governor of the Year award and for his unwavering commitment to North Carolina’s life science community.”

About BIO

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. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world’s largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.