The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council (CBIC) announced seven new CBIC Award honorees to a banquet audience of more than 200 at the 12th Annual CBIC Awards Gala, June 2 at Farmington Country Club.

"We were delighted to once again recognize and celebrate the achievements of the best and brightest in our area," said Gary Hatter, CBIC Chairman of the Board. "For more than a decade, the CBIC Awards have highlighted innovation and leadership in the private and public sectors, and in our K-12 classrooms. The 2010 honorees and finalists highlighted the extraordinary diversity and vitality of Central Virginia’s technological and entrepreneurial community. Their accomplishments inspire us all and bode well for a strong economic recovery.”

Referring to the keynote remarks of Dr. Gregory B. Fairchild, Executive Director of the Tayloe Murphy Center and Associate Professor at UVA’s Darden School, Hatter added that “Greg certainly heightened the inspiring tone of the evening, encouraging us to think about how entrepreneurs and innovators can transform economically challenged areas.”

“We were especially honored that Congressman Tom Perriello, former Virginia Delegate and Secretary of Natural Resources Tayloe Murphy, and Virginia Senator Mark Obenshain were able to participate in this special occasion,” Hatter said. “Everyone appeared to enjoy the program, as well as the socializing and networking, and this year’s rock-n-roll theme of ‘Innovation Star Search’ provided a memorable backdrop."

Photos are online at http://todcohenphotography.digipixart.com/gallery/14889.