youngkin glenn governor portrait 2023WASHINGTON, DC (September 17, 2024) – Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) awarded Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin with its 2024 Governor of the Year Award. 

BIO’s annual award honors governors for their leadership and commitment to strengthening biotechnology in their state. For over a decade, the award has recognized governors from across the country and both sides of the aisle.

“Investing in biotechnology is investing in Virginia’s future,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “As the Commonwealth’s cutting-edge research triangle and network continues to expand, my administration is determined to remain at the forefront of fostering innovation. I am incredibly humbled to receive this award, and I look forward to further solidifying Virginia’s role as a leader in the life sciences industry.”

“It is my honor to recognize Governor Youngkin with BIO’s 2024 Governor of the Year award for his leadership and support of the life sciences in Virginia,” said BIO President and CEO John F. Crowley. “From advancing innovative economic development initiatives for the bioscience ecosystem to investing in cutting-edge life science facilities across the state, Governor Youngkin has worked tirelessly on public policy solutions to help expand opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, and patients in Virginia.”

 "Virginia's $8 billion biotechnology industry is thriving because of the steadfast support of our governmental leaders and regional partnerships," said John Newby, CEO of the Virginia Biotechnology Association. "We thank Governor Youngkin and his administration for making transformational investments in our ecosystem, and for promoting pro-innovation policies that bring life-improving technologies to patients."

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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.