U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan Courtesy photo

NASHUA – For their tireless efforts to bolster scientific research, U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan D-N.H. and Susan Collins R-Maine are this year’s recipients of the Champions of Science Award.

Established in 1999 by The Science Coalition, the award recognizes members of Congress whose “actions and votes consistently reflect their support for fundamental scientific research.”

“Sen. Collins’ and Hassan’s support for robust federal funding for scientific research is critical for the development of our nation’s workforce and to maintain economic prosperity,” said TSC President Dr. Jill Pentimonti. “As we celebrate TSC’s 30th anniversary, we look forward to continuing investment into federal research agencies and their partnerships with universities around the nation that fuel the future of scientific development. It is thanks to leaders like Senators Collins and Hassan that the American research enterprise continues to lead in innovation and we are proud to call them Champions of Science.”

Hassan and Collins join an elite group of prior winners including Sen. Jeanne Shaheen D-N.H., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer D-N.Y., House Minority Whip Katherine Clark D-Mass. and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi D-Calif.

“I am honored to be named a 2024 Champion of Science by The Science Coalition. Supporting scientific research is critical to our democracy, economy and way of life,” said Hassan. “Science is necessary for informed decision making, for innovation that leads to economic growth, and for maintaining a high quality of life. America’s commitment to scientific research and innovation is the reason that we have been able to outcompete the rest of the world and is fundamental to our leadership as the world’s most indispensable democracy. I am proud to support the work that The Science Coalition does to advance research at universities in New Hampshire and across the country.”

Hassan was nominated by faculty members at Brown University, Dartmouth College and Northeastern University.

Since taking office in January 2017, she has spearheaded funding initiatives for technological innovation, STEM education as well as climate research.

“Congratulations to Sen. Hassan on her well-deserved Champion of Science Award. She has been a focused and effective champion for fundamental scientific research,” said Sian Leah Beilock, president of Dartmouth College. “Sen. Hassan has an impressive history of bolstering bipartisan legislation to increase funding for nationally and globally impactful research. She has also been a tremendous advocate for the CHIPS and Science Act and we are proud to have her as an ally for the EDGE consortium.”

Christina Paxson, president of Brown University, extended her congratulations as well.

“Sen. Hassan has been a strong supporter of funding for transformative scientific research that strengthens our economic and national security and her efforts continue to advance impactful discovery and innovation,” she said. “The Brown University community is proud to count Senator Hassan among our most distinguished alumni.”

Collins, the incumbent vice chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, was also nominated by Northeastern.

“At a time when public support for scientific research is being questioned, we are especially grateful for the tireless leadership of Sen. Collins and Sen. Hassan, whose bipartisan collaboration has shown that they are true champions of science,” said Northeastern President Joseph Aoun. “Scientific leadership is critical to our wellbeing, our prosperity, and our entire way of life. The Northeastern community is grateful to Sen. Hassan, a distinguished Northeastern alumna, and Sen. Collins for their unwavering commitment to helping the United States maintain its leadership in science and research.”

During her 27 years in the Senate, Collins has locked in billions of dollars to fund STEM education.

“The Science Coalition plays an important role in advancing the life-changing research being conducted at universities and labs throughout the country,” said Collins. “I am grateful to receive this recognition and thank Northeastern University for the nomination. As vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for federal investments that support the work of scientific researchers in Maine and across the United States, helping to promote scientific innovation, improve public health and strengthen local economies.”

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