3C Institute received the Award of Excellence in Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship from the Small Business Association (SBA) North Carolina (NC) District on Friday March 7, 2014. The ceremony was held at the Durham Museum of Life and Science and featured presentations by:
- Mason Ailstock, Vice President of Business Development, Research Triangle Park
- Denise Bennett, Vice President of Business Sales & Strategy, Wells Fargo
- Melissa DeRosier, PhD, Chief Executive Officer, 3C Institute
- Lynn L. Douthett, District Director, SBA NC District
- John Hardin, Executive Director of Science & Technology, NC Department of Commerce
- Representative (Rep.) David Price of NC’s 4th congressional district
- Mike Seibert, Regional Center Director, Small Business and Technology Development Center at NC State
- Margaret Winslow, Director of Grants & Economic Development, Office of Senator Kay Hagan
Ms. Douthett said of 3C Institute’s achievements, “Today we honor 3C Institute and your hard work and dedication. You have led this institution to great places and your work and partnerships around the globe definitely deserve this award today.”
Rep. Price spoke of 3C Institute’s success as a small business in NC. “I think the success of Dr. DeRosier and 3C Institute exemplify the spirit of the Triangle area…There is a wide array of small businesses that have given this area the vitality and cutting edge that we are so proud of, and that is where 3C Institute comes in, so it is entirely appropriate that this award for excellence, innovation and social entrepreneurship be recognized here today.”
Mr. Seibert said of his work with 3C Institute, “What I see in Melissa and the 3C Institute team is that you say what you do and then do what you say, and that you lead by example. I see that in not only the leadership but when I walk in and am greeted at your business…You integrate your vision in your daily activities. You have a passion for it…What I see in Melissa and this team is that you all go about the business of building effective teams…and, as important, understanding what it takes to be an effective team member.”
Of 3C Institute’s team, Dr. DeRosier said, “We always say at 3C Institute that this is a team effort that the diversity of experience, expertise and talents that is represented by this room is just astounding.”
3C Institute previously received a Tibbetts Award, given to exemplary firms that have received Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) funding, from the SBA NC District in 2011. SBIR grants and contracts are awarded by government agencies, included the U.S. Department of Education and National Institutes for Health, to explore feasibility of an innovative idea or technology, expand research and development and ultimately bring the innovation to the marketplace.
Left to right: Lynn Douthett, Mike Seibert, John Hardin, Mason Ailstock, Dr. Melissa DeRosier, Rep. David Price