For Immediate Release
Media Contact: pr@serotek.com
Technical Contact : info@serotek.com
Calvo recognized as one of Minnesota’s top technology innovators and leaders
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn – September 30, 2008 – Mike Calvo, founder and CEO of Serotek Corporation, the leading provider of Internet and digital information accessibility software and services, was named as a Technology Executive of the Year finalist for the 2008 Tekne Awards. The awards recognize Minnesota companies and individuals who have shown superior technology innovation and leadership. The Technology Executive of the Year category honors an individual member of an executive team who is responsible for the advancement of technology and technology strategy within a company or organization. Leadership within the business as well as civic and community level involvement are considerations.
Born blind, Calvo committed to making a difference from a young age and today, hundreds of thousands around the world, including the elderly, visually impaired, and those with limited mobility, are using Serotek products to operate computers and access the Internet. Calvo conceived of and led the delivery of several industry firsts including the first Web 2.0 based accessibility software, the first Microsoft Vista-ready product line, the first accessible software-as-as-service offering, the first remote incident and remote access management systems for corporate technology support personnel, and he was the first to remove financial barriers by providing world-wide computer accessibility free of charge by donating Serotek’s screen reading product to a foundation he helped found. Additionally, Calvo established and co-sponsored with Lenovo and Microsoft the Serotek Technology Camp for Children, and launched a program for K-12 students in the United States to obtain free accessibility software for their schools. “Recognition for accomplishments that required the cooperation of so many is humbling,” said Mike Calvo, CEO, Serotek Corporation, “but I’m honored to represent those who have influenced and changed the lives and careers of so many through technology access.”
Presented by the Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA) in partnership with Enterprise Minnesota and LifeScience Alley, the Tekne Awards annually recognize Minnesota’s leading technology users and developers in innovation, development, education, commercialization and management of technology in Minnesota. A list of finalists is available online at www.tekneawards.org. “Every finalist should be proud of this accomplishment,” said Kate Rubin, president of MHTA. “For nearly a decade the Tekne Awards have shined a spotlight on our state’s best and brightest technology innovators. Great leaders and innovators like Mike Calvo give us hope that we’ll be in good hands for years to come.” On Oct. 30, one recipient from three finalists will be named in this category at the Awards ceremony. Award categories recognize leaders and technology businesses that are emerging (with annual revenues under $50 million) and established (with annual revenues of $50 million or more). This year’s Tekne Awards ceremony will be emceed by Kerri Miller, host of “Midmorning” and “Talking Volumes” on Minnesota Public Radio.
Serotek Corporation
Serotek Corporation is a leading technology company that develops software and manufactures accessibility solutions under the System Access brand. Committed to the mission of providing accessibility anywhere, Serotek began with the launch of the first online community specifically designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Since then, Serotek has introduced several powerful, affordable solutions that require minimal training and investment. For more information, visit www.serotek.com.
Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA)
MHTA accelerates the growth, sustainability and global competitiveness of Minnesota's technology-based economy through public policy advocacy, member collaboration and education, and community outreach. MHTA is the only membership organization representing Minnesota’s entire technology-based economy. MHTA members include organizations of every size involved in virtually every aspect of technology creation, production, application and education in Minnesota. MHTA works in partnership with AeA, which represents Minnesota's technology organizations nationally. Find out more online at www.mhta.org.
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