(San Diego, Calif. – Sept. 25, 2009) On Sept. 25, 2009, at its signature annual business event, the Fermanian School of Business and Business Center of Point Loma Nazarene University presented the 2009 “Dealmakers of the Year” awards, which honor San Diego individuals and firms that are creating significant long-term value for the region. From more than 30 original nominations, three finalists were selected through blind ballot by a group of 15 regional business leaders, PLNU alumni, and Fermanian School of Business faculty and staff. Three hundred business and community leaders, students, faculty, staff, and guests attended the awards event held at The Dana on Mission Bay.
Director of the Fermanian Business Center Professor Randy Ataide said, “The high quality of nominees this year in each category is indicative of the number of individuals and companies engaged in creating long-term value for San Diego. They represented a diversity of interests and approaches, but all share the common goal of doing things that ultimately enhance the quality of life for our region.”
By category, the recipients of the awards were:
Individual Dealmaker of the Year – Dr. Harry Gruber, CEO and president of Tocagen, a local biopharmaceutical company pursuing the discovery, development, and commercialization of products for the treatment of cancer. An initial focus is on treatments for terminally ill cancer patients for whom no adequate treatment currently exists.
Firm Dealmaker of the Year – San Diego Zoo for a wide variety of regional and global efforts, including activities as diverse as protection and expansion of endangered species and animal habitat and health, as well as direct leadership in biodiversity and biomimicry (the emerging field of innovation inspired by nature).
The Collaboration of the Year – The Kumeyaay Wind II project of the Campo Indian Tribe for the collaborative $300 million wind-power project in the mountains east of San Diego. The project, which involves the Campo Indian Reservation, SDG&E, and Invenergy Co., will be California’s second largest wind-power project and will provide 160-megawatts of renewable electricity.
Manager of the Fermanian Business Center Cathy Gallagher said, “Our sponsors, students, and nominees really help shape a positive image and model not only for our community but also for our students and faculty. We are continually inspired by the relationships that we build from this event, and this helps to motivate all of us throughout the entire year. Our intent at the annual breakfast is to have an event which is celebratory in nature and spirit.”
Additional information about the event is available at www.pointloma.edu/Fermanian.
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Point Loma Nazarene University is a selective liberal arts university located in San Diego, California, and sits on a 90-acre campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In addition to more than 50 undergraduate areas of study, PLNU offers graduate program regional centers in Bakersfield, Arcadia, Mission Valley (San Diego) and the Inland Empire. Founded in 1902, PLNU serves more than 3,500 students.
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