By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-990546.mp3
Beacon, NY – A new partnership announced today in Beacon promises to advance commercialization of emerging real-time river monitoring sensor technology, new academic programs and long-term public policy solutions to protect waterways. Hudson Valley Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
The celebratory event took place at Denning's Point, part of the New York State Hudson Highlands Park on the banks of the Hudson River at Beacon. Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries and Clarkson University announced today they have expanded their education and operational partnership in order to advance commercialization of emerging real-time river monitoring sensor technology, new academic programs and long-term public policy solutions to protect waterways.
Clarkson University Business School Dean Tim Sugrue, a West Point graduate and successful entrepreneurial leader, will become the newly aligned Institute's Chief Executive Officer. The Institute will retain a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit designation, as well as its operations in Beacon and Troy. Sugrue believes that the partnership will help further the future of environmental science through design and engineering.
Clarkson University President Tony Collins says Clarkson and Beacon have been working together on a technical level for about three years now. Tim Sugrue says data collection monitors have already been placed on the river.
"I am delighted to welcome Clarkson University to Dutchess County," said John MacEnroe, President of Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation. "Clarkson's role as New York's pre-eminent applied science research university could not be a better fit for the Beacon Institute. John Cronin, Dr. Collins and Dr. Sugrue bring vision, science and technology to one of the most vibrant regions of our state. The benefits to the Hudson Valley will be immense."
Lt. Gov. Bob Duffy was on hand for the announcement. He sees an increased Clarkson presence in the Hudson Valley as a boon for economic development.