The Western New York area has a long, proud, and rich history of producing international leaders in many branches of Science. Medicine, Chemistry, Aeronautics, Biomedical Research, and Bioengineering are only a few of the scientific disciplines that have been significantly influenced by men and women from the Greater Buffalo Niagara region. To salute these individuals, and to focus local and national attention on the high caliber of scientific work that is thriving here, the Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute created the Western New York Pioneers of Science Educational Conference and Awards Banquet in 2002.

The Pioneers of Science program is a biennial event in which nine individuals who live, or have lived, in Western New York are honored with the Pioneers of Science award. The two-part program includes a full morning schedule of scientific lectures and interactive sessions led by the awardees at the Buffalo Zoo. These sessions provide a unique opportunity for high school students to meet and interface with some of society's best scientific minds.

The second portion of the Pioneers program was an evening awards banquet, held at Salvatore's Italian Gardens, where the recipients were recognized for their contributions in their respective scientific fields.

The Hauptman-Woodward Institute is committed to making this event into an exceptional educational experience for area high school students. For further information about this event or other upcoming educational programs, please contact Dr. Jane Griffin at (716) 898-8618.