Fermanian Business and Economic Institute Awards Dealmakers of the Year

At the 2011 Dealmakers of the Year Business Breakfast, hosted by PLNU’s Fermanian Business and Economic Institute (FBEI), awards were given to “unique individuals, firms, and collaborations that exemplify creativity, innovation, and ethical practices that create long-term value for the business community in the San Diego region.” Guest speaker Dr. James Bullard, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank in Saint Louis, was the keynote speaker. He addressed economic recovery concerns on a national and federal level.

The FBEI recognized Jeff Church, Organovo, and Smart City San Diego with the distinguished award; a special Partner Award was given to The San Diego Daily Transcript for its publishing work within the business sector since 1886. Jeff Church is the found of Nika Water, the first bottled water company to donate 100 percent of their sales to charity. Additionally, his company was the first of its kind to be certified as carbon neutral. The firm Organovo built the world’s first production 3D bio-printer. TIME Magazine recognized them in last year’s edition of the “Top 50 Inventions of 2010.” Finally, Smart City San Diego is a collaboration of public and private groups trying to improve San Diego’s energy independence. All in all, this event proved to be an exciting opportunity for the university to showcase the brilliant work of these individuals and groups, all for the betterment of the larger San Diego community as a whole.