[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 17 (Thursday, February 2, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. RICHARD B. NUGENT

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 2, 2012

  Mr. NUGENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the significant 
achievements that the University of South Florida (USF) has made in the 
fields of innovation and technology.
  In 2010, USF furthered their dedication to these fields by founding 
the National Academy of Inventors (NAI). Today, the NAI works to 
recognize inventors, enhance the visibility of university innovation, 
educate and mentor innovative students, and translate research and 
inventions of its members that may benefit society.
  With this type of commitment to innovation, it is no surprise that a 
recent report issued by the Intellectual Property Owners Association 
listed USF, along with 12 other American Universities, among the top 
300 organizations to receive patents from the United States Patent and 
Trademark Office in 2010.
  I am also proud that as USF continues to be a national leader in the 
field of innovation, the entire Tampa Bay area will significantly 
benefit. Researchers and inventors from USF will continue to work 
together with business and industry leaders in their respective fields 
to put their ideas and prototypes into action. These interactions will 
lead to a direct and positive impact on our local communities--
communities desperately in need of high quality jobs and business 
opportunities.
  I've always said that one of America's greatest strengths is the 
innovation of its citizens. Without innovation, this nation would not 
be what it is today. Unfortunately, many of these innovators in the 
past have not received the recognition for their achievements that they 
rightfully deserve.
  That is why it is my honor to recognize and support the achievements 
of USF for their commitment to innovation and research.
  With that, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 
achievements of the University of South Florida.

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