Thomas Alva Edison Patent Awards For over 17 years a small group of researchers, engineers, fellow inventors and industry professionals have dedicated themselves to create a higher-level of public awareness of the many outstanding New Jersey inventors that have impacted our society; in changing the scientific, technological, economic, and social aspects of our lives. With the help of the now ubiquitous use of the Internet, The Inventors Hall of Fame is able to maintain an on-line museum, preserving for posterity, the history of those honored over the last 17 years. In addition to celebrating innovation and honoring inventors, the NJIHOF engages in educational initiatives to expose children to the many wonders of invention and to promote activities that challenge the creative, intuitive, and inventive skills of students throughout New Jersey. The Research and Development Council of New Jersey seeks to foster the growth of R&D that supports the advancement of technology and innovation within New Jersey by building working partnerships between academia, industry and the state. Through the dedication of its large volunteer membership base, the Council is a big supporter of education and is also committed to honoring and celebrating individual achievements in all aspects of R&D. Recognizing our common goals, in 2002, The Research and Development Council of New Jersey embraced the NJIHOF as an integral part of the Council. Additionally, Dr. Robert Altenkirch, president of NJIT and Dr. Don Sebastian, vice president of R&D at NJIT continue their ongoing dedication and support of both The R&D Council and the NJIHOF. The Power of One It is through these cooperative partnerships and the dedication of many high-level professionals in industry and academia that the Research and Development Council of New Jersey is able to fulfill its mission. One Powerful Voice As a collective of innovation-based New Jersey companies and universities our unified voice fuels our progress in our pursuit of bridging the gap between industry, academia and government. And, to bridge the awareness gap among the general public as to the great value and contributions New Jersey’s research community provides to improve the quality of our world and our lives. One Shared Commitment We are committed to the education of our youth and the growth of our industry. We support critical programs targeting tomorrow’s scientists including: The N.J. Science Olympiad, a Technician Scholarship Program and our Classroom Speaker Program. The R&D Council is committed to programs that help spark the interest of youth and instill the love of science and technology in children of all ages. One Celebrated Passion Every year we share in celebrating our own achievements by formally recognizing members of distinction at our annual Thomas A. Edison Patent Awards Dinner and at today’s Inventors Hall of Fame Luncheon. It is our chance to share in each other’s accomplishments and provide encouragement and support to all.