Gov. McMaster issues proclamation recognizing SC Life Sciences Week to celebrate state’s fastest-growing industry
February 22, 2022
In recognition of the importance of the life sciences industry in South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster has issued a proclamation recognizing February 21-25, 2022 as South Carolina Life Sciences Week in the Palmetto State.
Governor McMaster issued the proclamation just as SCBIO organizers are putting finishing touches on the largest-ever life sciences gathering ever held in the state. More than 500 registrants live and virtual from across America and around the globe will attend the SCBIO-led gathering of South Carolina’s life sciences community this week in Charleston – and will celebrate the contributions of its 700+ organizations in helping America and the world overcome the challenging COVID-19 pandemic.
In his proclamation, Governor McMaster highlighted the rapid growth of the cutting-edge industry in South Carolina and its reputation as an emerging force in life sciences. He specifically cited the industry’s efforts in workforce development, its emerging role in research and development, and its ability to attract high quality and high-paying jobs and investment to the Palmetto State.
Governor McMaster issued the proclamation as hundreds of life science executives from 27 states and six countries prepare to assemble in Charleston, SC for SCBIO 2022: The Life Sciences Conference of South Carolina. Charleston and the Lowcountry feature a strong concentration of life science companies, while the industry boasts life sciences organizational presence in 42 of South Carolina’s 46 counties. Among more than 35 featured presenters at the conference will be BIO’s global CEO Dr. Michelle McMurry-Heath, Clemson University President Jim Clements, PhRMA executive Courtney Christian, Nephron Pharmaceuticals CEO Lou Kennedy, and SC Commerce Secretary Harry Lightsey III. SCBIO President and CEO James Chappell will deliver a highly anticipated State of the Industry address on the opening day of the Conference.
Among many highlights of the Conference will be the unveiling of a new Economic Impact Study for the state’s life sciences industry, a study last conducted in 2017 that revealed the sizable impact of the industry, including an$11 billion economic impact, more than 700 firms, and over 33,000 professionals employed in the research, development and commercialization of innovative healthcare, medical device, industrial, environmental and agricultural biotechnology products. Officials familiar with the just-completed study indicate the new results could be “significantly higher” despite the pandemic’s economic body blows.
Life sciences today represents a key economic development focus for the state, with strong life science recruiting initiatives led by the South Carolina Department of Commerce and other regional economic development teams. Governor McMaster issued an Executive Order in April 2021 for the state to make life sciences a strategic focus for South Carolina in its recruiting and economic development priorities.
“Life sciences is a major driver of South Carolina’s economy today, and this conference is testament to the industry’s surging impact, reach and rapidly rising economic significance in our state and country,” noted SCBIO President and CEO James Chappell. “We’re honored by Governor McMaster’s recognition and appreciate his personal support for the contributions that life sciences are making to improve quality of life, care and economic standing for South Carolina citizens.”
For additional information on SCBIO or to register for SCBIO 2022, visit www.SCBIO.org.
