SHAWNEE, KANSAS, August 15, 2023 - This year, at Innovation Festival, BioKansas Recognized individuals that have made outstanding contributions to the Kansas bioscience ecosystem.
The organization presented three awards to recognize the imperative work done to grow the bioscience industry and workforce, along with exceptional service to the non-profit charity. These awards celebrate the commitment, longevity, and ferocity of those working to impact Kansas. Three awards were given.
Kimberly Young - Recipient of the Sunflower Award for an individual
Kimberly Young, President of the Animal Health Corridor was selected for her persistent dedication towards building the animal health industry. Her work was acknowledged as setting a strong foundation that has enabled the region to pursue larger growth of the bioscience industry and related service provider industries.
The Manhattan Regional Economic Development Partnership - Recipient of the Sunflower Award for a team
The partners were recognized for their collaborative efforts to create extraordinary growth of the bioscience industry in Kansas. Their exceptional work was driven by true collaboration that enabled them to create modernized and customized training programs, further deepen research expertise, recruit businesses through the development of impactful incentives, grow an enriching community culture, and more.
Cara Ridenhour - Recipient of the President’s Award
BioKansas was honored to award Cara Ridenhour, Partner at Clarkston Consulting, in recognition of her exemplary volunteer contributions to BioKansas. Cara’s tireless service to the BioKansas community was pivotal in launching and curating Innovation Festival, the organization’s largest event and regional impact program.
Randy Logan - Recipient of the Workforce Innovation Award
Randy Logan, professor at the University of Kansas, Edwards Campus, was recognized for his leadership in the development and growth of the university’s biotechnology degree program. His efforts, in partnership with his colleagues, have grown the degree program’s reputation across the region’s industry companies as being the “go to place for top notch technical talent.” His contributions were recognized as being a continual contributor towards growing and retaining highly sought after talent.
BioKansas is honored to have the opportunity to recognize these incredible individuals and teams along with the pivotal work they are doing to support the Kansas bioscience community.