A BYU Professor was recently nominated to the newly-formed Utah Science Technology and Research Board, along with seven other prominent members of the community.
Dan Olsen, a computer science professor, was nominated to USTAR for his leadership in academia research.
"I think the biggest thing will be to enhance the link between university research and economic development in Utah," said Olsen, who has worked at BYU since 1984.
Gov. Jon Huntsman, Sen. President John Valentine, Speaker of the House Greg Curtis and Commissioner of Higher Education Richard Kendell nominated members of academia and commercial prowess.
"USTAR represents the future of Utah's economy and our long-term commitment to capturing our unique competitive advantages as a state," said Gov. Huntsman in a press release. "This board truly represents the finest professionals available to implement this important initiative."
The board was created this year in the legislative session to facilitate commercializing technology, according to a press release. The board will be confirmed the next session of the Senate, July 1.
When Sen. Valentine called Olsen to tell him he was nominated, Olsen said he was excited to help economic development and higher education in Utah.
"I think it's exciting for BYU to be invited to be involved in the local economy," Olsen said. "We are one of the largest employers of Utah County. In Utah, we have a higher educated populace, so the board will work out well. Our advantage is our people and the education of our people brings another advantage."
He is certainly very deserving to receive the nomination, said Tony Martinez, department chair of computer science, who has worked with Olsen for over 20 years.
"He is a strong representative as a leader, not only in research but computing as well," Martinez said. "This is an opportunity to make more connections not only for himself, but for the university, which can better benefit our students."
Olsen is on the board with experts in various fields: biotechnology, information systems, astronomy, medicine, finance and venture capital, business development and marketing. The board includes the CEO of Zions Bank, the former CEO of a pharmaceutical company, the state treasurer, the medical director of an infectious diseases laboratory and a partner of Vspring capital.
"These are people who understand academics and how to take intellectual discussion and turn it into an economic benefit for the state of Utah," said Ric Cantrell, assistant to majority leadership of the Utah State Senate. "This will be a link that bridges the gap between academia and commercial powers. What will happen is this board will take the research and link it with investment capital and make the businesses of Utah succeed."
They will be working on a series of projects throughout their time on the board.
"I actually don't know any of the board members," Olsen said. "I am most excited to get to know them."
This is the first time Olsen will be involved in a state program such as this, but he is excited to do it.
The theme for USTAR is "An MBA for Einstein. Industry is driven by technology, technology is created through research and research is conducted at Universities."
Copyright Brigham Young University 20 Jun 2006
