SAN JOSE, CA--(Marketwired - Jun 3, 2013) - Dean Kamen, holder of nearly 500 U.S. and foreign patents for medical devices that have expanded the frontiers of healthcare worldwide, and founder of FIRST, an organization dedicated to motivating youth to understand science and technology, has been named the tenth recipient of the James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award, The Tech Museum of Innovation revealed today. Sponsored by Applied Materials, Inc., the award honors individuals whose broad vision and leadership are focused on combating humanity's greatest problems.

"Technology and innovation only mean something if they have an impact on people's lives. I am honored to receive this award," said Kamen, who will be presented with the award in November at Silicon Valley's premier science and technology recognition ceremony, The Tech Awards. "I strive to inspire the younger generations to continue innovating."

Kamen's DEKA Research & Development Corporation is responsible for breakthrough inventions in medicine and clean energy in addition to providing research for major corporate clients. While an undergraduate, Kamen developed the first portable infusion device to deliver drug treatments that previously required round-the-clock hospital care. Through DEKA, Kamen developed a portable dialysis machine, a vascular stent, and the iBOT -- a motorized wheelchair that climbs stairs. Kamen also led teams in the development of devices such as the Segway Human Transporter, an insulin pump for diabetics, portable energy and water purification devices for the developing world, and a prosthetic arm for maimed soldiers.

"Dean's entrepreneurial spirit and drive behind his inventions to better the lives of people globally makes him an inspiring and deserving recipient of this year's award," said The Tech President Tim Ritchie. "He is a tireless advocate for innovation with a purpose. His passion to use technology for good and his determination to teach and motivate others to do the same is increasingly crucial because the future belongs to those who can innovate."

Kamen joins an impressive roster of past award recipients of the Global Humanitarian Award that includes Infoysys founder N.R Narayana Murthy, social entrepreneur Jeff Skoll, education and cross-cultural dialogue advocate Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan, Nobel laureate and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Applied Materials' Chairman Emeritus James C. Morgan, who inspired the award a decade ago.

"We congratulate Dean on this well-deserved recognition," said Mike Splinter, Chairman and CEO of Applied Materials, Inc."Dean represents what this award is all about -- dedication to improving lives through innovation and technology."

Founded in 1989 by Dean, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), is dedicated to motivating the next generation to understand, use and enjoy science and technology. This year FIRST will serve more than 300,000 young people, ages 6 to 18, in more than 60 countries around the globe.High-school-aged participants are eligible to apply for more than $16 million in scholarships from leading colleges, universities, and corporations.Studies have shown that FIRST alumni are highly motivated to pursue careers in science and engineering, thus fulfilling Kamen's goal of inspiring the next generation of technological leaders.

Kamen will accept the award in Silicon Valley at the Santa Clara Convention Center on Thursday, November 14, 2013 during The Tech Awards gala, presented by Applied Materials Annually, more than 1,400 esteemed innovators in the technology industry gather at the formal charity event to celebrate the power of technology to address global challenges and benefit humanity. The gala also recognizes 10 technologists, educators, scientists and entrepreneurs who are using technology to improve our world.

For more information about The Tech Awards, visit: thetechawards.thetech.org/

For the latest updates follow @TheTechAwards on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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Pioneering Health-Care Technologist Dean Kamen Named 2013 James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award Recipient

1943 wartime graduate William Myrkle accepts his diploma Sunday from Michelle Helmuth-Charles, Dowagiac Board of Education president.

From five co-valedictorians and a 1943 diploma to windy weather in the 50s, Dowagiacs 148th Commencement Sunday afternoon on Chris Taylor-Alumni Field was uncommon.

Breeze stole so many garments draped around necks it seemed to suggest how they got their name.

C.J. Brooks Union High School band performed Anchors Aweigh, the U.S. Naval Academy fight song, in honor of William Myrkle of Bangor, called to active World War II duty 70 years ago before he could graduate with his classmates.

Jeff Robinsons singers Celebrated with Kool and the Gangs 1980 No. 1 hit, then the choir director turned son Jonathans tassel.

First-year Principal Pieter Hoekstra said the 121-member DUHS Class of 2013 was the first time he had ever been associated with graduation outdoors.

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Local news and sports reporting covering Niles, Dowagiac, Cassopolis, Edwardsburg, Cass County, Berrien County in ...

The School of Medicine at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans has named three of its graduates 2012 Medical Alumni of the Year. Drs. Mario Calonje (59), Lester Wayne Johnson (71) and Fred Rodriguez (75) will be honored during the LSUHSC Medical Alumni' annual scientific session June 8 at the New Orleans Hilton Riverside Hotel.

Calonje is a retired radiologist in New Orleans who served as Chairman of Radiology Departments at East Jefferson Hospital, Hotel Dieu Hospital and Touro Infirmary. He is a former President of the New Orleans Radiology Group and is a Past President of the LSU Medical Alumni Board.

Johnson is still actively practicing surgery and currently serves as Chief of Surgery at LSU Health Sciences Center Monroe. Dr. Johnson has served as a passionate advocate for the LSU medical education programs in Louisiana and has worked selflessly to support the states medical institutions.

Rodriguez is a New Orleans pathologist who has been a member of the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Medicine faculty since 1977. He currently serves as the Emma Moss Professor of Pathology at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans. He is a former National Director of Pathology and Laboratory Services for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Rodriguez is the President-Elect of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science.

The criteria for selection of the LSUHSC Medical Alumnus/Alumna of the Year include recognition in three areas: bettering the LSUHSC New Orleans School of Medicine, improving the profession, and participating in other important civic activities.

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LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans announces its Medical Alumni of the Year

NORMAN Following approval by the Norman Public Schools Board of Education Wednesday, the district will partner with Norman-based KREF SportsTalk 1400 to offer livestreaming Internet broadcasts of major athletic events during the 2013-14 school year.

A notable feature of the partnership is NPS receiving 40 percent of the advertising profits by KREF for the Internet broadcasts, and NPS will use these funds to supplement the districts athletics and physical education programs.

We are excited by this partnership, said NPS Athletic Director Frank Thompson, who believes the livestreaming will not impact game attendance and gate proceeds. Parents and students will still want to attend the games. What this partnership does is provide more opportunity for the greater community and out-of-town alumni and family to take part in our athletic events.

Board of Education members and Superintendent Joe Siano were particularly excited at the prospect of the new communications feature Wednesday, as they discussed the broader audience range to be reached by the livestreaming.

This is a fantastic feature for out-of-town family members who want to see their neice/nephew or grandson/granddaughter play their sport, said Board President Don Shandy. If possible wed love to see this extended to performing arts events as well.

The first athletic event to be livestreamed will be Aug. 30 when the Norman High and Norman North varsity football teams compete in annual Crosstown Clash at the University of Oklahoma. Other events to be broadcast include the entire football season for Norman High School and Norman North High School; each crosstown clash for every male and female sport, including fast pitch softball, volleyball, wrestling, baseball and soccer and at least 15 basketball games for the varsity male and female teams of both schools.

The livestream broadcasts also will be available in high quality from mobile devices.

KREF owner Randy Laffoon said that his station may very well livestream additional games, both home and away, as a result of listener demand and the stations success in securing sponsorships.

KREF is proud to broadcast both schools events and enjoy the additional exposure this gives to the student athletes, Laffoon said, adding livestream broadcasts also may include special features, such as KREF radio or Skype interviews.

With the boards approval of the livestream partnership, NPS and KREF will move toward building website channels to showcase the livestream broadcasts, debuting the individual Tiger and Timberwolf channels before the start of the 2013-14 school year.

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KREF, Norman schools to partner

NORMAN Moore Medical Center is scheduled for demolition, but Norman Regional Health System will continue to serve the city, Health System CEO David Whitaker said in a special message released this week.

Whitaker said he wanted to clarify how the recovery process will work as the health system moves forward.

We stand together with Moore, now and into the future, Whitaker said.

Earlier reports that the NRHS Board is unsure whether the Medical Center will be rebuilt created confusion as to future service. In reality, the clean slate created by the destructive tornado will allow health system officials to analyze how best to serve Moore and what type of facility is most needed on that site.

That assessment process will take time, Whitaker said.

Immediately following the tornado that destroyed Moore Medical Center, NRHS implemented a three stage relief plan, Whitaker said.

The first stage dealt with the immediate needs including seeing that all patients, staff and people who sought shelter at the Medical Center during the May 20 tornado were safe and had appropriate medical care.

Miraculously, 125 employees, 30 patients and more than 300 people seeking shelter escaped without serious injury.

Many employees lost homes, vehicles or both that day.

The health system, with the help of the Norman Regional Health Foundation and the employee CARE Committee, began providing relief for these employees, Whitaker said. Also, part of the immediate need stage was securing the hospital, recovering what was salvageable inside and relocating the physicians that were housed at Moore Medical Center. These physicians will begin seeing patients tomorrow at their temporary locations.

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Norman Regional to remain

The Fleetwood School District recently inducted its inaugural class of distinguished alumni, recognizing six former students who have represented their alma mater admirably.

The alumni, who were selected from a group of 20 nominees, will have plaques documenting their achievements displayed at Fleetwood High School. The district recently held a ceremony to honor them. The honorees were:

Dr. Carl Constein, Class of 1938 - Constein was honored for his contribution to education and his service to the U.S.

Beginning his career as an English teacher, Constein went on to serve as superintendent in the Antietam and Wilson school districts. He also wrote a total of 400 weekly newspaper columns on education and published eight books.

Before his career in education, Constein served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, flying 96 supply missions and receiving two Air Medals and a Distinguished Flying Cross.

George Messersmith, enrolled in college early and did not graduate from Fleetwood - Messersmith, who passed away in 1960, served in the U.S. Foreign Service for three decades, working in 10 diplomatic posts on three continents from 1914 to 1947.

During World War I, he cracked a secret German code that led to the identification and deportation of enemy agents. He also served as the U.S. counselor general in Berlin prior to World War II.

Messersmith also served as assistant secretary of state under President Franklin Roosevelt and was once featured on the cover of Time magazine.

Dr. Kenneth Miller, Class of 1943 - Miller was honored for his dedication to improving the lives of others.

He led the effort to educate the community and bring about the acceptance of fluoridation of the Fleetwood water supply and supported and encouraged other dentists to establish practices in the area. Miller also was a generous supporter of many philanthropic causes.

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Fleetwood inducts inaugural group of distinguished alumni

Washington, D.C. Felix German Contreras, age 22, is a second-year student at Atlantic Cape Community College in New Jersey on a sure-footed path to health sciences.

New Jersey State Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society President. Atlantic City Boys and Girls Club Staff Assistant. Medical school-bound.

Who knew this was possible for the six-year-old Dominican boy who immigrated to Atlantic City in 1996. His father, a biochemical engineer, discovered his experience did not translate laterally to the U.S. and settled for casino employment. His mother, a high school graduate, is a beauty school-trained cosmetologist who enjoys styling hair.

A naturalized U.S. citizen at 17, Contreras watched his neighborhood friends wither under the weight of harsh challenges. Four of them were lost to drug abuse, incarceration and death. Peter, his closest friend since age seven died from a heroin overdose in 2012.

"Wasn't this move to America supposed to open a brighter future?" he wondered. The situations could easily create more doubt than possibilities for Contreras who describes himself in a desperate search for that "catalyst to achieve."

One late night in early 2012, Contreras, a calculus and chemistry whiz, tapped a few keystrokes that redirected his fate. A Google search for "medical summer program" returned the life-changing link SMDEP Summer Medical and Dental Education Program.

The Summer Medical and Dental Education Program is a free, six-week academic enrichment program sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The intensive program which offers tuition, housing and meals at 12 university sites across the country equips college freshman and sophomores from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in medicine or dentistry.

Contreras applied and was accepted by SMDEP at the Yale University site. The rigorous science, math and medical school preparation was accompanied by workshops to improve reading and writing skills. Contreras admits the training helped him clear hurdles around English as his second language.

Encouraged by a site advisor to "step up his game," Contreras read six novels in six months, turning the corner on a newly found love for English.

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Six Week Program Exceeds Dreams, Opens Opportunities

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Ched grants scholarships to poor college freshmen

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- Rutgers University's president, a neuroscientist, was brought in last year to turn the school into a medical sciences powerhouse, but he has quickly become a target of criticism from some lawmakers who question his ability to lead the university amid a series of embarrassments in the high-profile athletic department.

Still, Robert Barchi has the support of the state's most important politician, Gov. Chris Christie, who said Tuesday that he has "absolute confidence" in Barchi and won't meddle in university business, including its decision to hire Julie Hermann as athletic director.

There have been revelations in recent days that volleyball players at the University of Tennessee complained that Hermann abused them verbally and emotionally when she coached there in the 1990s and that she was involved in a sexual discrimination lawsuit while she was an administrator at Louisville. She was hired by Rutgers May 15 and is scheduled to start there June 17.

"I understand that there are some people that feel differently about it. It doesn't matter," Christie said during a testy moment in his monthly call-in show on TownSquare Media Tuesday night. "What matters is: What did the administration at Rutgers believe?"

Christie said he had talked with Barchi, the university's lawyer and the chairman of the Board of Governors and believes they should be allowed to run the university as they see fit.

"These are their decisions," Christie said. "Now they have to deal with the questions that are being raised."

Last month, Christie, a Republican, gave a similar view when some Democratic lawmakers first questioned whether Barchi should be president at the start of a cycle of problems in the athletic department. Then, the university fired basketball coach Mike Rice days after a video was made public of him berating players with gay slurs, kicking them and throwing basketballs at them.

The university's athletic director and top in-house lawyer both resigned under pressure. Since then, the university has defended its hiring of new basketball coach Eddie Jordan after the school said he was a Rutgers graduate when he was not. Lacrosse coach Brian Brecht was also suspended two games for verbally abusing his players during practice, something the university discovered in a probe of all its sports programs after Rice's dismissal.

In his defense of Barchi in April, Christie said it would be a mistake to let Barchi go because of his role in trying to rebuild Rutgers.

Lawmakers last year adopted a version of Christie's plan to reconfigure the state university system with the goal of making Rutgers into an elite medical science research center by having it absorb parts of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

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Rutgers president gets governor's backing

Published: Sunday, May 26, 2013 at 8:42 p.m. Last Modified: Sunday, May 26, 2013 at 8:42 p.m.

Gunnar Paulson, vice chairman of the School Board of Alachua County, has been inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame at the University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance, joining such notables as Steve Spurrier, Emmitt Smith and Amanda Butler.

Paulson is being recognized for his many accomplishments and extraordinary service to the Alachua County School District.

Paulson earned bachelors and masters degrees as well as a specialist degree and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Florida. He has taught physical education and math, worked as an athletic director and coached a variety of sports, primarily football and weightlifting, at four high schools, including Buchholz and Gainesville high schools.

He established weightlifting in this area, and won four state championships in the sport at Buchholz. As defensive coordinator at Mosely High School in Panama City, he helped lead the football team to two consecutive undefeated seasons. Paulson also spent two years as a graduate assistant coach with the UF football team.

From 1998 until his retirement in 2010, Paulson served as president of the Alachua County Education Association, the union representing Alachua County public school teachers and support personnel. Paulson has also served a number of local organizations, including the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Juvenile Justice Council. Hes led the North Central Florida Labor Council and the School Board Insurance Committee.

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The Williston-based Hooks will compete for a national title at Cooperstown Dream Park during the week of June 29-July 4 at Cooperstown, N.Y., the home of the American Baseball Hall of Fame and the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame.

The team, comprised of youths from Williston, High Springs, Gainesville, Newberry, Chiefland and Lake City, will compete with teams from across the nation in a skills competition that includes three individual events and one team event called Around the Horn. Bryce King will represent the team in the Golden Arm event, Ethan Slone will represent the team in the Sultan of Swat event, and either Matt Moss or Joe Ruth will represent the team in the Road Runner event.

The Hooks recent achievements include a championship win at the Florida Elite 2K13 in Lake City, championship for the Power of Pink Tougher than Cancer tournament, championship for Slam Fest II, and runner up at the Perry Qualifier.

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UF health college inducts Paulson into Alumni Hall of Fame