Memphis Bioworks Foundation Recognized as "MPACT Maker" Organization of the Year

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, October 26, 2007 - The Memphis Bioworks Foundation has been named the MPACT Maker Organization of the Year for its contributions to the Memphis community and economy. The award was presented by MPACT Memphis during the third annual MPACT Maker Awards ceremony, which was held in conjunction with the organization’s sixth anniversary party on October 25.

MPACT Memphis is a non-profit organization targeting young professionals under the age of forty in order to foster a new level of social, political and cultural engagement in the community. In its five-year history, MPACT Memphis has become a model for similar efforts across the country.

This marks the second year that MPACT Memphis has recognized an organization in addition to recognizing the outstanding achievements of young Memphians in the areas of civic or professional involvement.

“MPACT Memphis looks for an organization or company that is having a superior impact on the community and it’s future,” said Chris Allen, executive director of MPACT Memphis. “Memphis Bioworks Foundation is helping the Mid-South emerge as one of the leading centers for bioscience, but its vision goes beyond business motivations. The real rewards are reflected in the community.

“The Foundation is enriching educational experiences, creating high-paying jobs, expanding the community’s tax base, and revitalizing neighborhoods. In short, part of the Memphis Bioworks Foundation’s mission is promoting the evolution of an economy that enhances the quality of life throughout our community.”

“The Foundation is honored to be recognized as making a difference to the future of our community,” said Dr. Steven J. Bares, Executive Director and President of the Memphis Bioworks Foundation. “In many ways, our mission and that of MPACT are the same in that we want to attract and retain a diverse community of young professionals in Memphis who are active at home, at work and throughout the entire city.”

The Memphis Bioworks Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, was formed to establish the Memphis region as an internationally recognized center for biomedical technology through education, research, job training, and commercialization. The Foundation also is developing the UT-Baptist Research Park, which serves as the focal point of the city’s biomedical economic development. For more information, visit www.memphisbioworks.org.