Sen. Warner Named 'Friend of Science'

Senator John Warner, who was key in bringing Jefferson Lab to Virginia, addressed the lab community April 19, 2004, when the DOE announced Critical Decision Zero (CD-0) for the lab's 12 GeV Upgrade project.

When the federal government launched a competition in 1982 to build an electron accelerator, Sen. John Warner was among the first to back a proposal by the Southeastern Universities Research Association to locate the facility in Newport News. His support marked the beginning of a long relationship that has greatly benefited SURA and the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.

On June 17, SURA recognized Warner's strong support for SURA and JLab by presenting him with its Distinguished Friend of Science Award. The award recognizes those "whose extraordinary efforts within the SURA region fulfill the SURA mission of strengthening the scientific and technical capabilities of the Southeast and nation."

"Senator Warner has been a great friend to the science and technology community and the role of higher education to advance research and economic competitiveness.  He's been a strong advocate for our nation's education and science agenda," said William R. Harvey, President of Hampton University and past chair of the SURA Council of Presidents and Executive Committee.

Warner's support of Jefferson Lab has been critical to its success, noted Jefferson Lab Director Christoph Leemann. "He understands the importance of the lab's research, and he has always done all that he can to help us fulfill our mission," Leemann added. "His leadership, vision and impact on the lab cannot be underestimated."

After pushing for Jefferson Lab to be built in Newport News, Warner used his clout in the senate to steer millions of dollars to fund the lab's construction and its science programs. He also helped secure the first funding for the free-electron laser program and worked to provide it millions of federal dollars over the years. Recently, he's been a vocal and strong backer of the 12 GeV Upgrade project. In addition to backing the lab in Washington, Warner also has been a frequent visitor to the lab, touring its facilities and participating in events such as the dedication of CEBAF in 1996.

"Senator Warner has been a great friend to SURA, the Jefferson Lab and our nation's scientific and research interests, and therefore is deserving of this important recognition," University of Virginia President John Casteen wrote in his letter nominating the senator.  He added, "Senator Warner has worked in the Senate to provide incentives for America's college and university students to enter the very critical fields of math, science and engineering."

SURA is a consortium of 63 leading research institutions in the southern United States and the District of Columbia, and was the founding operator of Jefferson Lab. The organization established the Distinguished Friend of Science Award in 2006 to commemorate its 25th anniversary. Each SURA member institution is eligible to make one nomination for the award.

Warner began his public service in 1945 when he joined the Navy at age 17.  He later attended Washington & Lee University on the GI Bill, and then entered the University of Virginia Law School. At the outbreak of the Korean War, Warner interrupted his law studies and commenced a second tour of active military duty.  Upon his return from Korea, Warner finished his law degree and in 1956, was appointed an Assistant U.S. Attorney.  He entered private law practice in 1960.

Warner resumed his public service with his Presidential appointment to be Under Secretary of the Navy in 1969.  For over five years during the war in Vietnam, he served in the Department of the Navy, and led the Department as Secretary from 1972-1974.