Susan L. Solomon Receives Public Service Award From International Society for Stem Cell Research

NYSCF CEO Susan L. Solomon recently received the 2020 Public Service Award from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) for her outstanding contributions to the field. The ISSCR awards honor innovative work to harness the potential of stem cells, recognize exceptional research, support young researchers and the future of stem cell research, and acknowledge extraordinary public service. Ms. Solomon accepted the award this week at a special session held during ISSCR’s virtual meeting.

“It is the honor of my lifetime to lead NYSCF,” remarked Ms. Solomon. “Starting this organization was a risky proposition, but we knew that if it worked, it would make a huge difference. That’s the same for how we think about the research we support and conduct at NYSCF, and how I know many of you approach your own work: think big and take risks. If you fail, you will still learn a lot. And if you succeed, you have a chance at changing the world.” 

“Susan Solomon has been an early and enthusiastic supporter of stem cell science,” said Doug Melton, PhD, former ISSCR president and Xander University Professor at Harvard University in a press release from ISSCR. “She successfully campaigned for the state of New York to support the field and, more significantly, established a leading foundation dedicated to advancing stem cell science. Her commitment to supporting the entire field, particularly through the awards to young investigators has been inspirational and productive.”

“Susan’s philanthropic efforts have led to grants that empower early and mid-career stem cell scientists that are unique in their flexibility to support the vision of the investigator and effectively support high-risk/high-reward areas of research for the stem cell field,” said Valentina Greco, PhD, ISSCR board of directors member and Carolyn Slayman Professor of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine. “NYSCF investment has created a highly synergizing force with our society in supporting our newest emerging generation of leaders.”

“Susan is simply the most determined person I know,” added Kevin Eggan, PhD, ISSCR 2020 annual meeting program committee chair and Professor in the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University. “I believe that the world is most changed by people who can look into the future and see the world they want to live in and then dedicate themselves to creating it. Susan is such a person.”

“On behalf of the Society, I’m honored to recognize Susan Solomon with the 2020 ISSCR Public Service Award for her tireless contributions to the stem cell research community and unwavering commitment to creatively support scientific excellence and investigators in the pursuit of breakthrough discoveries,” said Deepak Srivastava, MD, ISSCR president.

Hear from other leaders in the stem cell field about Susan’s transformational leadership: