Dear Friends,

One of the most gratifying aspects of my job as Director of the State Hygienic Laboratory is to report on the achievements of our staff, many of which are highlighted in this report. In November 2011, we celebrated the one-year anniversary in our new building on the University of Iowa Research Park Campus. From this facility, we are developing new collaborations that further the education, service and research mission of the University of Iowa.

The State Hygienic Laboratory sits at the nexus between the UI research enterprise and the professional practice of laboratory science. This facility greatly expands our ability to perform as a resource for the state, the region and the nation. We are excited by the opportunities our new building gives us. If the work of our staff developed a national reputation in our former facility, I can only imagine what the future holds.

It is estimated that laboratory testing impacts more than 70 percent of medical decisions. This work is occurring within an environment of profound system change in the role of government and in the delivery of healthcare services.

As Iowa navigates through this change, the State Hygienic Laboratory will continue to assure the components of scientific testing, infrastructure, development and workforce abilities are aligning with the broad system changes that guarantee the health of all Iowans.

Sincerely,