The Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) has garnered another prestigious award.
For its role in regional economic development, the State Science and Technology Institute (SSTI) recognized CU-ICAR with its Excellence in Tech-Based Economic Development award for improving competitiveness of existing industries.
Six organizations were named winners of the institute's 2012 Excellence award for investing in science, technology and innovation to grow their local and regional economies.
The awards were presented Monday in Atlanta during the institute's 16th annual conference. The event was attended by more than 250 local, regional and national economic development leaders from more than 40 states.
John Kelly, Clemson University vice president for economic development, accepted the award on behalf of CU-ICAR.
State Science and Technology Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Berglund said CU-ICAR exemplifies a comprehensive, strategic initiative that connects a research university, key industry partners and government at all levels to increase the competitiveness of a key regional industry and develop the work force necessary to support it.
“CU-ICAR is a program that applies best practices in a consistent and intelligent manner and has yielded the measurable and meaningful results to prove it,” Berglund said.
The State Science and Technology Institute is a national nonprofit organization that leads, supports and strengthens efforts to improve state and regional economies through science, technology and innovation.
In 2009, CU-ICAR was awarded the AURP Emerging Science and Technology Park Award for North America, and the same year was recognized by the National Academy of Sciences as one the five best global practices for science and technology parks in the U.S.
Suzanne Dickerson, director of international business development for CU-ICAR, said the State Science and Technology Institute award is a tremendous honor.
“An award like this from such a prestigious organization is a reward for hard work by a talented and dedicated team,” Dickerson said.
