MA Governor Deval Patrick Honored as BIO Governor of the Year

WASHINGTON--(Business Wire)--
Today, the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) announced its
selection of Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick as Governor of the
Year in recognition of his leadership and support of the biosciences
industry.

"Governor Patrick has been an exemplary leader in enhancing and
expanding Massachusetts' global stature as one of the world's most
vibrant biotech clusters. Today we celebrate with him one of his
landmark achievements: the passage of his signature 10-year, $1
billion Life Sciences Initiative," said Jim Greenwood, President and
CEO of BIO.

Joshua Boger, PhD, Chairman of BIO's Board of Directors and
President & CEO of Cambridge-based Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
said, "The Governor has demonstrated unflinching dedication to our
state's tradition as a welcoming home to research institutions and
companies dedicated to combating the diseases that plague mankind. The
signing of the Massachusetts Life Science Initiative is yet another
example of the comprehensive approach Governor Patrick and his staff
take to ensure the long-term success of the life sciences in
Massachusetts."

Jack M. Wilson, president of the University of Massachusetts,
applauded Patrick's commitment to improving science education
throughout the state. "Governor Patrick's Life Sciences Initiative and
his commitment to the inclusion and integration of our public
education systems at all levels are critical to our ability to
position our region and our nation as leaders in this industry and
pioneers on the cutting edge of discovery for years to come. We are
very fortunate in Massachusetts to have such forward-thinking state
leaders--Governor Patrick as well as Speaker DiMasi and Senate
President Murray."

Patrick's Life Sciences Initiative will provide a variety of
financial incentives to life science companies that are adding jobs in
Massachusetts. The funds can be used to support a number of different
growth activities, from equipment purchases to research activities to
relocation costs.

Dr. Boger will present the award to Governor Patrick tomorrow,
June 17, 2008, at 11:45 am during the Tuesday Keynote Luncheon in
Ballroom 20 at the 2008 BIO International Convention in San Diego, CA.

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,200 biotechnology companies, academic
institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations
across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO
members are involved in the research and development of innovative
healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology
products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the
world's largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with
industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the
world.

www.bio.org

Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO)
George Goodno, 202-962-6660
www.bio.org

Copyright Business Wire 2008