Shaheen Receives Champion of Science Award from the Science Coalition

Shaheen receives the Champion of Science Award, a play on the Wheaties’ “Breakfast of Champions” cereal box, from Dartmouth Associate Provost Martha Austin

*Shaheen was nominated for the prestigious award by Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire (UNH)*  

(Washington, DC) – Yesterday evening, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) was honored by the Science Coalition with a Champion of Science Award, which recognizes members of Congress for their commitment to science through support for funding for federal research agencies. As the ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen has been a strong advocate for scientific research funding priorities. In last year’s spending agreement, Shaheen spearheaded efforts to prioritize agencies that conduct research, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The research these agencies conduct promotes economic prosperity and often leads to breakthroughs that improve quality of life for Americans. During her time in the Senate, Shaheen has also worked to secure scientific research funding for New Hampshire universities and businesses. In addition, Shaheen has been a leading advocate for efforts to invest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. In January, Shaheen joined the New Hampshire Congressional delegation in introducing the Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin Act, which would create a $1 coin honoring the Concord educator who died aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986, with proceeds going toward the FIRST Robotics program which was founded by Manchester-based inventor Dean Kamen.

“As it is so often said, science is the engine of prosperity. The energy we use to power our homes, the vehicles we drive, advancements in health and medicine, our very way of life: All of these were developed and improved through scientific innovation and research. For the United States to remain a world leader, we should invest more in science, engineering and education, not less,” said Shaheen. “I thank Dartmouth College and the University of New Hampshire for their nomination, as well as the Science Coalition for their critical advocacy of science and for honoring me with this prestigious and generous award.”