Meddius blasts its way to innovation award

Meddius, a Charlottesville-based healthcare data firm, last year developed a system to provide hospitals with an automated way of detecting and alerting staff of healthcare-associated infections.

That innovation on Thursday netted the company the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council’s Rocket Award, recognizing the business that has moved with “noteworthy speed” to develop an idea into a commercial product.

Seven other enterprises and individuals were honored as well Thursday night at the 10th-annual Charlottesville Innovation Awards. The ceremony, featuring a James Bond theme, was held at the Farmington Country Club and featured remarks from state Secretary of Technology Aneesh Chopra and a speech from William McDonough, founder and principal of William McDonough + Partners, Architecture and Community Design.

In his speech, McDonough, whom Time magazine has named “Hero of the Environment,” discussed the importance of design and noted Thomas Jefferson’s legacy of design in Central Virginia.

McDonough also touched on the importance of protecting the environment, cautioning that “being less bad does not mean being good.” He said efficiency cannot save the Earth or its species and that we must celebrate growth.

Chopra, in his speech, said innovation is about using the knowledge of the brightest minds and converting it into social good.

Local businesses and individuals who have used technology for the social good, such as Meddius, were honored with awards.

Musictoday received the Spotlight Award, for the enterprise that has brought positive attention to the region. Musictoday, which has been featured in magazines such as Fast Company, provides Web stores, ticketing, fan clubs, order fulfillment and hosts some of the world’s biggest musical, sports and entertainment brands.

The Breakthrough Award, recognizing a significant breakthrough, was presented to Cellular Materials International Inc. CMI manufactures “sandwich panels” that are stronger and lighter than metal and other such materials.

Computers4Kids received the Community Award for its dedication to mentoring disadvantaged youth in technology, helping them improve their computer skills. The award is given to the business that has committed the most to improving the quality of life in Central Virginia through community involvement.

The Red Apple Award, given to the K-12 educator who consistently uses available resources to prepare students for the possibilities of technology, was awarded to Beth White of Western Albemarle High School. CBIC also awarded White its $2,500 Technology in Education Grant to use for technology in the classroom.

Elizabeth Pyle was the recipient of the People’s Choice Navigator Award, granted to the entity or individual who has shown leadership in the local or regional business community. Pyle is the founder of Pyle and Associates, a management consulting firm.

The Leadership Award was given to both Linda Kolker, a communications specialist for Leapfrog Solutions, and Michelle Prosser, founder and president of Energy Focus. The leadership award is given to the CBIC volunteer member who has provided significant contributions to the council.