Honors select legislators in recognition of their leadership in advancing federal and state policies to promote life sciences research, investment and innovation.

2026 Awardee:

Rep. Matt Dubnik (R-29)

Georgia House of Representatives

This award celebrates an industry/academic collaboration, or other allied partnership, that demonstrate strength, tenacity, and leadership. Like the mythical phoenix, together they exemplify how strategic partnerships can accelerate discovery, fuel commercialization, and create meaningful impact for patients and communities.

This award is sponsored by the Metro Atlanta Chamber.  

2026 Awardee:

Micron Biomedical, Emory University, and CDC – Industry-Academic Partnership

Presented to a company or institution who has made the most significant transaction of the year (between January 1, 2025-March 31, 2026), a deal that exemplifies strategic vision, market influence, and long-term value creation.  Whether it’s a transformative partnership, acquisition, licensing agreement, IPO, or major funding round, this deal represents a defining moment for the companies involved and a milestone for the state’s biotech ecosystem. 

2026 Awardees:

Economic Development

• UCB

• Shriners Children's Research Institute and Georgia Tech

Acquisition

• LymphaTech & Tactile Medical

• Avanos Medical

Financing

• Altesa BioSciences

Federal Grant

• HEAL: Healthy Ameliorated Lymphatics, Georgia Institute of Technology

• Manus & U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (HHS/ASPR)

Presented to a life sciences organization or individual that has demonstrated continuous commitment to making a positive, lasting impact on their local community. This award recognizes organizations/ individuals that go beyond their day-to-day operations through career development initiatives, outreach programs, patient advocacy, corporate philanthropy, or other significant community contribution.

2026 Awardees:

• Angela Gill Nelms, Biolocity

• Frugal Science Academy

• Jessica King Holden, Gwinnett Regional Science, Engineering + Innovation Fair

• Dr. Marlo Vernon, Augusta University

Presented to an institution, team, or individual whose innovation goes beyond the traditional paradigms and has the potential to significantly impact human health, agriculture, or environmental sustainability.  Eligible innovations may include—but are not limited to—advancements in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, medical devices, digital health, or life science-related AI and data platforms. 

2026 Awardees

• Dr. Kyle Johnsen, University of Georgia

• Focused Cryo

Presented to an individual in the first decade of their career whose achievements are significantly contributing to or transforming the life sciences industry. 

2026 Awardee:

Dr. Ryan Devine, Medical Innovation Hub, Georgia Tech

Presented to a Georgia biotechnology high school teacher who exhibits innovative teaching, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to inspire the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and future leaders in STEM/ biotechnology.

Submission criteria:

• Teaching philosophy and how they incorporate innovation in the classroom.
• Examples of mentorship and support provided to students beyond the curriculum.
• How they foster curiosity, resilience, and leadership in STEM fields.
• Measurable impacts (student success stories, competition results, college/career paths, etc.).

2026 Awardee:

Ana White, DeKalb High School of Technology North at Cross Keys