PITTSBURGH, PA...January 31, 2008- Carnegie Science Center today announced the winners of its 2008 Carnegie Science Awards, sponsored by Eaton Corporation.

Carnegie Science Center established the Carnegie Science Awards program in 1997 to recognize and promote outstanding science and technology achievements in western Pennsylvania. Celebrating its 12th year, the Carnegie Science Awards have honored the accomplishments of more than 200 individuals and organizations that have improved lives through their commitment, courage and contributions.

"The Carnegie Science Awards program celebrates the heroes of science and technology in western Pennsylvania," said Joanna Haas, director of Carnegie Science Center. "Their accomplishments are inspiring and significant, because these extraordinary winners are driving economic growth and developing tomorrow's scientific workforce for our region."

"Eaton is proud to partner with Carnegie Science Center to commemorate the winners of this prestigious award," said Jerry Whitaker, president, Power Components & Systems Operations, Eaton and 2008 Carnegie Science Awards event chairman. "The awardees' dedication and achievements in science and technology are a great representation of the passion and enthusiasm of these industries in western Pennsylvania." Awardees will be honored during a formal celebration at Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland on May 9, 2008.

2008 Carnegie Science Award recipients include:

Chairman's Award
Robotics Institute, Carnegie Mellon University

Advanced Manufacturing
Paul Medwick
James Thiel
Andrew Wagner
PPG Industries

Advanced Materials
Stephen F. Badylak
McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine

Catalyst
John W. Manzetti
Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse

Corporate Innovation
Medrad, Inc.

Elementary Educator
Marie Lowe
Lynette Zimmerman
Avella Area School District

Middle Level Educator
Nancy Bires
Hermitage School District

High School Educator
Ellen Wright
Pittsburgh Public Schools

School District
Riverview School District

University / Post-Secondary Educator
Mary Besterfield-Sacre, Ph.D.
Joseph J. McCarthy, Ph.D.
Robert S. Parker, Ph.D.
University of Pittsburgh

Start-up Entrepreneur
John Shearer
Powercast Corporation

Entrepreneur
Rich Lunak
Innovation Works

Environmental
Richard V. Piacentini
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Information Technology
Entertainment Technology Center, Carnegie Mellon University

Journalism
Kenneth Chiacchia
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Life Sciences
William R. Wagner, Ph.D
University of Pittsburgh

Emerging Female Scientist
Tiziana Di Matteo, Ph.D.
Carnegie Mellon University

2008 Carnegie Science Awards Honorable Mentions

Catalyst
Louis Piconi
Apangea Learning, Inc.

Corporate Innovation
Idea Foundry

University / Post Secondary Educator
Michelle Blanken
Bidwell Training Center

Journalism
Joe Miksch
Pitt Med Magazine
University of Pittsburgh

Environmental
Rebecca Flora
Green Building Alliance

About Carnegie Science CenterCarnegie Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center's goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Science Center is Pittsburgh's premier science exploration destination, reaching more than 700,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes and off-site education programs.

About Eaton CorporationEaton Corporation is a diversified industrial manufacturer with 2007 sales of $13.0 billion. Eaton is a global leader in electrical systems and components for power quality, distribution and control; fluid power systems and services for industrial, mobile and aircraft equipment; intelligent truck drivetrain systems for safety and fuel economy; and automotive engine air management systems, powertrain solutions and specialty controls for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has 64,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com