Tuesday Evening, October 4, 2011 – Pasadena Convention Center

The Genetics Policy Institute’s Stem Cell Action Awards were presented at the annual World Stem Cell Summit, which is often referred to as the ‘conference of hope.’ The awards recognize the dedicated individuals and organizations that positively impact the cause of stem cell research.

GPI honored the stem cell community’s top innovators, leaders, and champions at the 2011 Stem Cell Action Awards Dinner. GPI recognized the organizations and individuals who have had the most positive impact on the stem cell community.

2011 STEM CELL ACTION AWARD HONOREES

Leadership Award: Sherry Lansing
Sherry Lansing is the former chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, current chairman of the Board of Regents of the University of California and CEO of The Sherry Lansing Foundation. She also serves on the Independent Citizens' Oversight Committee of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine and has made an immeasurable contribution to its success.

National Advocacy Award: Research!America
Research!America is the largest not-for-profit public education and advocacy alliance committed to making research focused on improving health a higher national priority. This organization motivates public support and funding for stem cell research.

Education Award: Let’s Talk Science
Let’s Talk Science is a Canadian national, charitable organization delivering science learning programs and services that turn children and youth on to science. This organization has taken a multi-pronged approach to help students and educators gain insight on topics surrounding stem cells, including a high school symposium called “StemCell Talks!,” hands-on classroom workshops, teacher resources that include a national biotechnology learning continuum, and CurioCity, an online program for teens.

Public Advocacy Award: University of Minnesota Stem Cell Institute
When the Minnesota legislature passed a bill criminalizing certain types of stem cell research, scientists at the nation’s first established stem cell institute at the University of Minnesota effectively led a successful advocacy effort to defend this valuable research which led to a veto, and the continuation of stem cell research in Minnesota.

Inspiration Award: Grant Albrecht
Since having developed a spinal myelopathy in 1996, Grant Albrecht has become a determined patient advocate. He has pursued countless avenues of treatment from the traditional to the alternative, and inspires others to chart their own course to rehabilitation and recovery. A highly sought after speech writer and strategic communications coach, Grant worked with Americans for Cures advancing the Prop 71 initiative, and presently serves on the Genetics Policy Institute’s strategic advisory board. He has spoken to many educational and community groups in his impassioned effort to promote a greater understanding of stem cell science, and to help mobilize the Pro-Cures community.