BioCrossroads Announces Additions and Changes to the Board of Directors

INDIANAPOLIS (September 3, 2024) - BioCrossroads, the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership initiative established as a catalyst to advance, grow, and invest in Indiana’s life sciences sector, is pleased to announce seven new appointments to its Board of Directors and key elevations within its current Board members to the Executive Committee.

These strategic additions and transitions are closely aligned with BioCrossroads' efforts to advance the ambitious statewide 10-year industry strategy it released in January, aimed at advancing research and innovation, manufacturing ecosystems, and workforce development within Indiana's life sciences sector.

In furtherance of these strategic focus areas, BioCrossroads is pleased to announce the elevation of Cathy Langham, President and CEO of Langham Logistics, and Alan Palkowitz, PhD, President and CEO of the Indiana Bioscience Research Institute, to the Executive Committee. Langham, a Board member since April 2023, is a Sagamore of the Wabash recipient, a CICP board member, Indiana University Trustee, and community leader, bringing extensive entrepreneurship experience and community connectivity to her new role. Palkowitz, who joined the Board in 2021, brings over three decades of expertise in drug discovery and development, with extensive leadership experience at IBRI, Indiana University School of Medicine, and Eli Lilly and Company. Their elevated leadership roles will be crucial in steering BioCrossroads toward new initiatives and further strengthening Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem.

“These leadership changes are not only a reflection of our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Indiana’s life sciences sector, but also help ensure we have the right vision and expertise as we work to fulfill our ambitious 10-year plan,” said BioCrossroads’ Board Chair Dan Peterson, VP of Industry and Government Affairs at Cook Medical. “Elevating seasoned leaders like Cathy Langham and Alan Palkowitz to our Executive Committee reinforces our capacity to drive forward initiatives that will solidify Indiana’s position as a global life sciences leader."

In addition to these leadership elevations, BioCrossroads welcomes seven new members to its Board of Directors:

• Ryan Baehl, Global Head of Operations for Labcorp Central Lab, replaces Stacey Yount on the Board. With nearly 20 years of experience in clinical research and laboratory operations, Baehl’s expertise will be crucial as BioCrossroads works toward fueling innovation within Indiana’s life sciences sector.

• Dr. Matt Connell, Vice President of Healthcare at Ivy Tech, marks Ivy Tech’s first representation on the Board. Connell’s distinguished career in healthcare education and administration has been instrumental in shaping programs that align educational outcomes with industry needs, which will be helpful in guiding BioCrossroads' emerging talent and workforce development initiatives.

• Dr. Daniel Golden, Vice President and Global Head of Research, Discovery, and Breakthrough Innovation at Elanco Animal Health, joins the Board, succeeding Marcela Kirberger. Golden’s leadership in scientific discovery and innovation at Elanco will support BioCrossroads' efforts to advance research initiatives in Indiana.

• Dr. David Ingram, IU Health’s System Chief Medical Executive, succeeds Ron Stiver on the Board. Ingram’s vast experience in research and clinical leadership and his commitment to improving healthcare delivery will provide invaluable insights as BioCrossroads continues its mission to enhance Indiana's life sciences industry.

• Jim Lancaster, President of Recon and Global Headquarters Executive Director for Zimmer Biomet, brings decades of leadership in the orthopedics industry, including significant experience at Zimmer Biomet. Lancaster’s deep understanding of the medical device sector will be instrumental in aligning BioCrossroads' efforts with the needs of this critical industry.

• Cory Lewis, President and CEO of INCOG BioPharma Services, joins the Board with extensive experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing and entrepreneurship. Lewis’ expertise will be crucial as BioCrossroads works to expand life sciences manufacturing and foster entrepreneurship in the state.

• Ron Penczek, Chief Accounting Officer at Elevance Health, succeeds Bryony Winn as Elevance Health’s representative on the Board. With over 20 years of executive leadership at one of the nation’s largest payor organizations, Penczek will bring valuable strategic insights and functional expertise to BioCrossroads, as the organization seeks to advance Indiana’s life sciences sector.

“As we welcome these new industry leaders to our Executive Committee and Board, we extend our deepest gratitude to the departing members whose contributions have been instrumental in our success,” said BioCrossroads’ President and CEO, Vince Wong. “Each new board member brings expertise that complements our strategic goals, enhancing our capacity to foster innovation, expand life sciences manufacturing, nurture workforce development, and elevate Indiana’s profile as a leader in life sciences. Ultimately, these efforts are focused to drive economic growth and maximize Indiana’s enormous potential to make a positive impact on human health. Their diverse experiences and insights will play a critical role in furthering our objectives and contributing to the sector's overall success.”