Commentary by Gov. Martin O'Malley
(Sept. 23, 2009) This week, I was proud to join more than 1,200 participants from 40 states and 27 countries throughout the world for the 2009 World Stem Cell Summit, held right here in Maryland, where we have long been committed to supporting and promoting stem cell research even in times when we've faced federal opposition. This year's Summit served as the perfect venue to announce a new partnership between Maryland and California, creating a first-of-its-kind bi-coastal collaboration on stem cell research. The agreement will make it easier for researchers in each state to collaborate and broaden the pool of expertise that can be applied toward potentially life saving research.
I was also honored to receive on behalf of all Marylanders the National Leadership Award for our shared commitment to life sciences in Maryland.
Today, it remains our goal and vision to make Maryland the most welcoming environment for stem cell research and all life sciences in the world. As we stand at our own cutting edge of history, these incredible human breakthroughs are helping to reawaken a commitment across the world to protecting the dignity of every individual.
Maryland is home to one of the three largest stem cell funds in the entire United States, and unlike many others, the money goes directly to research labs, helping these institutions propel the potential for life saving solutions. Through this Fund and our other life science commitments, we're able to leverage Maryland's more than 400 bioscience companies and 50 research-intense federal institutes and centers, so we remain well positioned to take full advantage of the knowledge-based economy of tomorrow.
I invite all Marylanders to learn more about the innovation, discovery, and collaboration taking place in this bold new industry right here in our State. Visit http://www.mscrf.org/