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Celebrating Life 6 HEART OF THE COMMONWEALTH: A Photographic Portrait of Worcester & Central Massachusetts P H OTO : J AM E S W E L L MA N E ver since the first settler's boots touched upon Worcester soil, the City has attracted its fair share of innovative, creative, and daring individuals who have le their mark. Men like Ichabod Washburn, Stephen Salisbury, and Robert Goddard helped to launch manufacturing, appreciation for the arts, and scientific discovery in the region; they also set the path for future entrepreneurs and companies who would in time make their own breakthroughs in industry, technology, and medicine. e striking photographic images and the forty-five profiles of leading organizations within these pages mirror the characteristics the region's founding fathers possessed. e companies, non-profit organizations, financial and academic institutions, health care facilities, museums, entertainment venues, and other businesses featured in this book represent the tangible growth, innovation, leadership, excellence, and optimism that continue to energize the Heart of the Commonwealth. Education forms a strong foundation for every successful city and region; academically, Worcester County sits at the head of the class. Home to ten colleges and universities –many nationally ranked – and several top-notch high schools, the region offers unparalleled educational opportunities. Many of the region's graduates have gone on to make important discoveries, become industry and government leaders, and champion significant medical advances. Moreover, the fact that alumni reinvest in their alma maters at a significant rate testifies to their commitment to these institutions and to the strength of the greater Worcester area. Central Massachusetts has also enjoyed a reputation for delivering first-class health care. Dating back to the birth control pill, Worcester has been known for its cutting-edge research and development, as well as hands-on clinical care. at tradition of excellence continues with an extensive hospital network that crisscrosses the heart of the state, bringing the best in medical personnel, treatment options, and the latest high-tech equipment to every citizen. In addition, the area's medical industry has been an early adopter of innovative models, such as the patient- centered medical home, electronic health records, and advanced preventative care interventions. Biotechnology laboratories whose landmark discoveries Continued on next page u Central Massachusetts: