State Science Advisor
Overview The State Science Advisor (SSA), appointed by the Governor, provides advice and counsel on science and technology issues to the Governor, state legislature and other state agencies. The Science Advisor serves on a broad range of boards and commissions pursuant to the oversight of key scientific initiatives, research efforts, federal and state mandates and on-going programs devoted to science and technology issues. The Science Advisor has specific responsibility to supervise or participate in the following key areas: Advisory Council on Science and Technology (SAC) The SSA and SAC review significant advances in science and technology and advise and make recommendations to the Governor, state legislature and governmental agencies on the use of science and technology to foster scientific literacy and to strengthen the state’s economy, educational system and quality of life. The SSA serves as an ex-officio member of the SAC and provides staff support for all SAC activities and initiatives. This year the SAC solicited and reviewed 50 nominations for the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology. The dinner was held at the Discovery Gateway with nearly 200 attendees. Chris Eisenberg, a former National Public Radio journalist, was the emcee for the event. Dr. Sarah George Governor Gary R. Herbert, Wade Hull, SAC the Director of the Utah Museum Outgoing Chair, Tami Goetz, State Science Advisor. of Natural History was the keynote speaker, with Governor Herbert presenting the awards to the seven awardees. The Governor’s Medal is a symbol of recognition for those individuals who have provided distinguished service in the fields of science and technology. The Governor’s Medal recognizes outstanding achievement in the following areas: academia, industry, government and education. The SAC also appointed one new member this year: Dr. Jennifer Logan. The SAC is also serving as the Executive Committee for the WIRED initiative that is helping to create a talent “pipeline” for the Utah life science community. G o v e r n o r ’s O ff i c e o f E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t • A n n u a l R e p o r t 2 0 1 0 • w w w. b u s i n e s s . u t a h . g o v
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