New IAC chair named

The Innovation Advocacy Council (IAC), an initiative of SSTI to better communicate with and educate Congress on innovation issues, has named Ben Johnson its new chairperson. Johnson, BioSTL’s vice president of programs, will take over the position from Michael Cassidy, president and CEO of the Georgia Research Alliance.

“We’ve been able to achieve our current level of success because of the continued strong leadership that individuals in the innovation space have provided for the effort,” said Dan Berglund, SSTI president and CEO. “This country is at a junction where policy support to advance the principles of innovation that will create jobs and advance economic prosperity is crucial. Mike Cassidy has guided the effort well, and we look forward to Ben’s continued leadership on this front.”

Through the IAC, SSTI and its member organizations have held more than 200 meetings with congressional offices; provided input on multiple bills and policy proposals; and, secured $52 million in funding for the Regional Innovation Strategies program. Additional RIS awards were announced this week, and are detailed in a related story.

IAC’s advisory board works with SSTI to develop a policy platform. Johnson has been part of that effort for the past four years and will continue to work closely with Cassidy and others involved with the IAC.

Those interested in supporting SSTI and the IAC are encouraged to contact Berglund at 614-901-1690 for more information on how to get involved.