It was great to see familiar faces and new ones too. We’ve been doing this for 18 years now—giving people in our community a chance to hang out, relax, and chat outside the lab, office or classroom.
We also want to give a quick shout-out to our amazing sponsors who made that night happen. You didn’t just help us get together—you strengthened Wisconsin biotech. From startups to big companies, you understand that building community is how we build breakthroughs. Thanks for backing Wisconsin biotech!
We also introduced something new for us – a short program for the evening. We celebrated a legend—not just for his world-class science that changed molecular biology, but because he saw what biotech could become way before most people did. We also heard from two outstanding leaders who shared firsthand what they’re building and where Wisconsin biotech is heading!
First, we celebrated Dr. Richard Burgess from UW-Madison. When he started the UW Biotechnology Center over 40 years ago, he didn’t just build a lab—he built a place where brilliant ideas, talented people, and cutting-edge tech could come together to create something amazing. That Center has trained countless students, powered groundbreaking research, and helped build the biotech economy that’s still transforming Wisconsin today. To honor Dick, we presented him with our first ever award! We called it the lifetime achievement in biotechnology award, a “classic beer stein” – affectionately known as the Happy!
Next, we heard from two awesome individuals who are making things happen for Wisconsin biotech.
First up was Jessica Martin Eckerley from Forward BIOLABS. Jessica spotted a problem—biotech companies needed better lab space—and went out to fix it. Whether they worked out of their garage or were ready to scale up, Forward BIOLABS provided the lab space and gear needed so they could focus on the cool science instead of worrying about facilities.
Next was Bryan Husk from the UW-Madison M.S. in Biotechnology program. Bryan was building our talent pipeline—training the next generation of biotech pros right here in Wisconsin. These weren’t just students finding jobs; they were becoming the innovators and leaders driving our industry forward.
We also got a surprise visit from State Senator Melissa Ratcliff who represents South Central WI, and sits on two Technology committees! She wrote on Instagram “Events like this highlight how collaboration between science, education, and policy can drive innovation, create good jobs, and improve lives. Thank you to everyone who is helping make Wisconsin a hub for biotechnology and discovery!”
Thanks again to EVERYONE for being part of such a special event! We’ll see you next year! (we’re kicking around the idea of a Spring event!)
BTHH Team
Alex & Allen
Thanks to our GOLD Sponsors!
Thanks to our SILVER Sponsors!
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