The Science Coalition today gave Senator Charles Schumer its "Champion of Science" award in recognition of his strong and continued advocacy for basic research funding. With New York's wealth of research universities, Senator Schumer understands the importance of basic research in maintaining America's competitiveness in the global marketplace. Through his tireless work as a New York State Assemblyman, a U.S. Congressman and now a U.S. Senator, he has become a leading advocate for science research funding and science education. Over the years, he has secured funding for many of the world-class scientific research universities throughout New York and the rest of America. Last year, he was a vocal supporter of the America COMPETES Act, in which he secured inclusion of provisions that would ensure recruitment and retention of talented math and science teachers.
"Senator Schumer has time and again shown his commitment to a farsighted approach to improving basic scientific research as a means for innovation and economic growth," said Joel Seligman, President of University of Rochester, which is home to the Laboratory for Laser Energetics – one of the many premier research facilities in New York State. "Senator Schumer sees funding for scientific competitiveness as an investment in the American economy and the success of the next generation," Seligman added. A delegation of representatives from New York's research universities and Science Coalition members accompanied Seligman at the event on Capitol Hill.
The Science Coalition works to expand and strengthen the federal government's investment in university-based scientific, medical, engineering and agricultural research. Sustained support for research across the entire range of scientific disciplines is the most important step the nation can take to maintain America's position at the forefront of scientific discovery, technological innovation, and economic growth in the 21st century.