International Leadership Overlooking Centennial Olympic Park

After a few chilly days here in Atlanta, Tuesday brought a beautiful evening for a gathering of public officials atop the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. In addition to providing a great networking opportunity for the global policymakers who are in town for the BIO International Convention, the lovely venue —which overlooks Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park — played host to the presentation of the BIO International Leadership Award. After warm words of welcome from Sam Williams, president of the Chamber, and Governor Sonny Perdue, Jim Greenwood presented the award to the Honorable Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario. Jim praised the Premier for his dedication to growing bioscience in Ontario, including his development of North America’s first and only Ministry of Research and Innovation. “I want to thank the Biotechnology Industry Organization for this great honor,” said Premier McGuinty. “Every day, researchers in Ontario are building on our strong reputation for leadership in the life sciences. It's their hard work that's led to discoveries with the power to transform lives and our economy. Our government will continue to fund their efforts so Ontario is the home of the next generation of breakthroughs, the next generation of businesses and the next generation of jobs." The Premier is one of more than 90 public official officials – including eight U.S. governors – in attendance at this year’s Convention. Hopefully, some of them will join us at the Georgia Aquarium tonight for the Gala Reception – it’s a can’t miss!