Secretary Locke Joins President Obama in Announcing the 2009 National Medal of Technology and Innovation Laureates
Secretary
Locke today joined President Barack Obama in announcing and
congratulating the 2009 winners of the National Medal of Technology and
Innovation. The medal is the nation’s highest honor for technological
and scientific achievement and was awarded to three individuals and one
team, who will receive their awards later this year at the White House.
“Innovation is a key driver of economic growth, and the technological advances of the 2009 medalists are truly awe-inspiring,” Locke said. “These innovations have revolutionized communications, medicine and numerous other industries, and exemplify American ingenuity and leadership at its best. The American people greatly appreciate the contributions of these men and women. I look forward to joining President Obama in honoring our winners at the White House.”
The National Medal of Technology and Innovation was created by Congress in 1980 and has been presented by the President of the United States since 1985. A distinguished, independent committee appointed by the Secretary of Commerce evaluates the merits of all candidates nominated through an open, competitive process. Committee recommendations are forwarded to the Secretary, who makes recommendations to the President for a final decision.
The Medal program is administered by the Commerce Department’s United States Patent and Trademark Office. For additional information, visit www.uspto.gov/nmti. See the related White House announcement here. Commerce press release