O. Max Gardner Awards

Dr. Kenneth Adler - 2005 Recipient

A native of New York, Dr. Kenneth Adler received a bachelor's degree in biology from Queens College in Flushing, NY, and a master's degree in the field from Adelphi University in Gardner City, NY. He earned a doctoral degree in cell biology from the University of Vermont, where he then taught in the department of pathology for eight years. Adler joined the faculty of the veterinary school at NC State as an associate professor in 1987 and was promoted to professor in 1990.

One of Adler's most significant contributions to biomedical research is the development of a process whereby lung cells from humans and other animals can be maintained in the laboratory under conditions that allow these cells to be identical to the structure and function normally found in the body. This important advance has allowed him to make discoveries that are likely to lead to medications and therapies that will revolutionize the treatment of debilitating lung diseases such as asthma and cystic fibrosis. Adler's studies are now moving forward to clinical trials in humans that could benefit millions of people worldwide.

Adler also is actively involved in training the next generation of environmental scientists He developed and serves as program manager of a collaboration between NC State and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Health Effects Research Laboratory in Research Triangle Park. This training agreement allows NCSU graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to conduct research in EPA laboratories and work on joint projects between NCSU faculty and EPA researchers. More than a dozen trainees have been involved in the program to date.

In 2004, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognized Adler's contributions to medical research with a MERIT Award, which provides 10 years of uninterrupted research funding - approximately $4 million in Adler's case. Only two to 5% of the nation's top medical researchers receive this prestigious award. NC State recognized Adler's career accomplishments last year with its highest award, the Alexander Quarles Holladay Medal for Excellence. He also has received the NCSU Alumni Association Award for Research Excellence and was the Alumni Distinguished Graduate Professor from 1998 to 2000.

Demonstrating a passion for excellence, compassion for humanity, and dedication to improving the health of present and future generations, W. Randolph Chitwood, Jr., Professor of Surgery and Chief of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery at East Carolina University, is recognized as a pioneer in the field of cardiac surgery.