Washington, DC - The Science Coalition today gave Congresswoman Anna Eshoo its "Champion of Science" award in recognition of her strong commitment and continued advocacy for basic research funding. "Representing much of Silicon Valley and several research institutions, Congresswoman Eshoo understands the significant role basic research plays both in advancing our knowledge in critical areas like health care and energy and in driving our economy," said Dr. Philip Pizzo, Dean, Stanford School of Medicine.
Throughout her 16-year career representing California's 14th congressional district, Rep. Eshoo has worked tirelessly to promote American competitiveness and innovation. In 2005, the Congresswoman introduced the Innovation Agenda - A Commitment to Competitiveness to Keep America #1, which promoted an increased investment in research and development and the creation of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Energy. "I know firsthand Congresswoman Eshoo's support, commitment and farsighted approach to maintaining America's leadership in basic research, and in DOE research in particular. She has been a strong ally in the effort to invest in the research and development needed to secure America's energy future," said Dr. Persis Drell, Director, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.
Ms. Eshoo serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and is a member of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet and the Subcommittee on Health. Additionally, she is the co-chair of the Congressional High-Tech Caucus and the House Medical Technology Caucus.
Drs. Drell and Pizzo presented the Champion of Science award to Rep. Eshoo at an event attended by members of The Science Coalition and others from the higher education, high-tech, and scientific community.
The Science Coalition's Champion of Science Award recognizes policymakers and others who are committed to maintaining America's position at the forefront of scientific discovery, technological innovation, and economic growth through strong and sustained federal government investment in university-based basic research.
The Science Coalition is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization representing 46 of the nation's leading public and private research universities. It is dedicated to sustaining the federal government's investment in basic research as a means to stimulate the economy, drive innovation and secure America's global competitiveness.