Delaware BioScience Association Supports Student Scholarships at Delaware Tech

ORIGINAL SOURCE: Delaware Technical Community College

The Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) is building on its support for Delaware Technical Community College students enrolled in the Biological Sciences or Biotechnology departments. Delaware Bio established a scholarship program in 2018 and is a longtime supporter and partner of Delaware Tech.

Delaware Bio has been a catalyst for bioscience innovation in Delaware. The association serves pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, academic partners, and other organizations with the goal of expanding Delaware’s vibrant science economy. With more than 140 member companies and organizations of every size, Delaware Bio membership ranges from global leaders to small start-ups, representing thousands of innovation-based jobs vital to Delaware’s economic future.

Delaware Bio president Michael Fleming visited the Stanton campus to deliver a check and tour the science labs, as well as meet with College leadership to discuss new ways of engaging to ensure there is a well-trained workforce to meet increased demands in the life science sector, with a growing focus on advanced manufacturing.

"We are so pleased to continue and build upon our support for students in the College's biological science and biotechnology programs," said Fleming. "At a time when the value and urgency of biomedical research has never been more apparent, it is critical that we expand access to opportunities in the field for those who might not otherwise be able to pursue these essential studies."

Delaware Tech President Mark T. Brainard said industry partnership is essential to the school's mission.

"Our continued collaboration with Delaware Bio helps to ensure our programs and students are prepared to meet the growing employment needs of this vital, thriving sector," said Brainard. "We are grateful for this generous financial support to benefit our students and help meet Delaware’s workforce needs."

Two students who have received scholarship funding from Delaware Bio are Alexandrea Edmonds and Destiny Shipley. Edmonds was the first Delaware Bio scholarship recipient in fall 2019 and spring 2020. She graduated in May 2020 with a degree in biological sciences. She plans to continue her education in the future, and said the financial assistance was invaluable to her. Shipley received the scholarship in fall 2020 and spring 2021. She hopes to work in a pharmaceutical lab in the future.

PHOTO:
From left to right: Dr. John McDowell, biology/chemistry instructor; Dr. Katie Lakofsky, director of workforce development and community education and Delaware BioScience Association board member; Michael Fleming, President, Delaware BioScience Association; Cheryl Corn, senior director of major and planned gifts; Dan Ehmann, vice president and campus director, Delaware Tech; Dr. Mark Brainard, president, Delaware Tech