The 21st edition of the Discovery Awards was a testament to innovation and scientific prowess as it recognized the contributions of remarkable researchers and innovators, including eight luminaries from Dalhousie University.
This gala event, held at the Halifax Convention Centre, not only celebrated scientific accomplishments but also aimed to inspire the youth of Nova Scotia by highlighting the wonders of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).
Dalhousie President Kim Brooks expressed her admiration for the commitment to regional advancement through innovation. “Congratulations to all the honorees and nominees. Your dedication to discovery not only sets new benchmarks but propels us towards a brighter future,” she remarked during her address at the event.
Amidst moments of scientific revelry, the event embraced an air of playfulness. Attendees engaged in dance performances, a science-trivia challenge, and a demonstration where household items and simple circuits were used to craft ‘Scribble Bots’ that danced merrily, fostering an atmosphere of laughter and camaraderie among both emerging and established researchers.
The ceremony paid tribute to the late Dr. Ronald Keith O’Dor (1944-2020), posthumously inducted into the Discovery Centre Hall of Fame. Known for his international impact on marine management and conservation, Dr. O’Dor’s legacy embodies a spirit of creativity, demonstrated by his playful gadget creations and innovative lab equipment repurposing.
The accolades extended to several other distinguished recipients, including Dr. Erin Johnson, Dr. Pemberton Cyrus, Noreen Kamal, Dr. Robert Abraham, Dr. Daniel Boyd, Dr. Sharon Kehoe, and Dr. Steven Beyea, recognized across various categories for their exemplary contributions to science, research, and innovation.
The event raised over $125,000, benefiting initiatives like the Youth Empowerment in Science (YES) program, Trusted Voices, and the ‘Why Immunize?’ campaign, furthering educational programs that nurture young scientific minds in Nova Scotia.
The Discovery Awards, hosted by the Discovery Centre, not only celebrate groundbreaking discoveries but also pave the way for fostering curiosity, exploration, and innovation among the next generation of scientists and innovators in the region.
