Page 3 - The Hormel Institute 2024 Annual Report

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dear friends and supporters,
Once again, we have made great strides over the last year as we pursue scientific discoveries that help us advance in the battle against cancer and other chronic diseases.
Science does not progress in an isolated ivory tower; science moves forward through widespread collabo- ration. Over the course of the year, we continued to strengthen partnerships and research collaborations with Hormel Foods, Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota, Riverland Community College, Gustavus Adolphus College, and more.
Consortiums, conferences, and symposiums encouraged further collaboration. Our annual Research Symposium fostered knowledge exchange and celebrated the research progress of our Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) interns, who we know will continue to make far-reaching impacts in
the fields they pursue.
The Viral Vector Core Consortium gathered experts from all over the country and the world to accelerate progress in the realm of genetic therapies used to improve human health.
This year our state legislators visited The Hormel Institute to learn about our visions for Minnesota Bioimaging Center (MBiC), Future of Advanced Agricultural Research Minnesota (FAARM), and education and training initiatives that will
propel Minnesota to the forefront of biotechnology and cultivate the next generation of innovative research leaders.
Our expanding education and outreach initiatives are creating a student-to- scientist pathway that will foster the growth and development of tomorrow’s innovators, while also providing our community with vital health information and resources through programming and events throughout the year. Furthermore, our growing list of clinical studies are ensuring rural Minnesotans are included in future health care solutions.
Ten new faculty members hailing from some of the world’s leading institutions joined our team of world-class scientists conducting cutting-edge research over just the last two years to investigate innovative research questions of their own.
As we continue driving science forward, we remain committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive, collaborative environment through our established intercultural workplace initiatives. In a world of international research and team science, these inititatives raise the bar for our institute and create a workplace where talented individuals want to carry out their careers.
All this will ensure we reach health solutions that improve and extend lives world- wide. Thank you for your ongoing dedication, your partnership, and your belief in our mission and vision.
Robert Clarke, PhD, DSc
Executive Director, The Hormel Institute
This is indeed a time of accelerated growth for the Institute, a time where our research is launching forward.
–Dr. Robert Clarke, Executive Director
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