The Governor’s Bioscience Award is presented annually to an individual or company that has made significant contributions to Nebraska’s bioscience industry. The selection criteria range from conducting innovative research to product development to investment that grows the bioscience community in Nebraska. The recipient is selected based on input from Bio Nebraska Board of Directors, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development as well as conversations with state leaders.

“Evonik was on the leading edge of Nebraska’s bioscience growth when it came to Blair twenty years ago,” said Governor Pete Ricketts (left in picture). “During the past two decades, Evonik has expanded operations and launched pioneering new ventures in the Cornhusker State. The company’s innovations in animal nutrition are creating great jobs for Nebraskans, while providing an important market for local farmers. Evonik is very deserving of the 2020 Governor’s Bioscience Award, and we look forward to celebrating its continued successes here in Nebraska.”

In his remarks, Paul Caldwell (right in picture), site director for Evonik’s Blair facility, noted that 2020 had been a strange year due to COVID-19 and the safety adjustments that were necessary, but that the employees were able to adapt and adjust and continue to deliver product. He added, “We are proud to cap off the Bioscience Month in Nebraska as this year’s recipient of the Governor’s Bioscience Award. For more than 20 years now, we have been manufacturing essential ingredients for animal nutrition for customers throughout the country and around the world.”