For almost 2 decades, BioMedSA has presented the Award for Innovation in Healthcare and Bioscience to recognize impactful work from national, regional and local drivers in the field; including patient care, education, research and development, leadership, public policy and medical technology. This premier event provides opportunities to expand visibility, connect with healthcare and biomedical leaders and decision makers from across the region.
September 11, 2024 was a beautiful night to celebrate the breakthrough work of Dr. Jason S. McLellan at the 2024 Award for Innovation in Healthcare and Bioscience. Dr. McLellan, a structural biologist in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at The University of Texas at Austin, is an outstanding leader addressing infection and weakened immune systems by studying the structural elements (proteins) of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. McLellan’s contributions in vaccine design led to pivotal knowledge necessary for the development of trailblazing cures and antibody therapies for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Ebola and COVID-19.
The evening began with reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones during the cocktail hour. Over 300 guests found their way into the dining room as the program began with an introduction by our Presenting Sponsors, San Antonio Medical Foundation and UT Health San Antonio followed by an summary of BioMedSA’s work in the ecosystem. Heather Hanson, president of the organization, reviewed BioMedSA’s attendance at the Bio Conference, the upcoming 2025 Biofest Days, including Biofest Invest, and the 2023-24 Bridge to Bio Accelerator Program; all to support and grow the healthcare and bioscience ecosystem in the region.
Steve Spriester, master of ceremonies, began the award ceremony by welcoming guests and introducing Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Ted Day, Board Chair of BioMedSA and EVP Strategic Planning & Business Development at University Health. The recipient introduction was presented by the President and CEO of Texas Biomedical Research Institute, Dr. Larry Schlesinger. Dr. Jason McLellan took the stage to receive the award.
Following the award ceremony, Dr. McLellan sat for a fireside chat with Dr. Jennifer Sharpe Potter, Sr Vice President of Research at UT Health San Antonio. The two discussed specific work of the McLellan lab, vaccine design, and the industry overall.
The evening closed with music in the beautiful courtyard; a classical string quartet.
Until next year, San Antonio.
