Cypress, CA — July 8, 2010 – John Crowley, biotechnology executive, entrepreneur, and current Chairman and CEO of Amicus Therapeutics, will deliver the keynote address at TUI University’s 2010 Commencement on July 31 at the Terrace Theater/Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Long Beach, California.
Over 10 years ago, John Crowley started a challenging journey of hope and survival when two of his children were diagnosed with the rare and fatal neuromuscular disorder, Pompe disease. Defying the odds, Crowley traveled the world and located a scientist developing an enzyme therapy.
Grasping at this last hope, Crowley quit his job, took out a $100,000 home equity loan and founded Novazyme Pharmaceuticals, a five-person start-up biotech company zeroing in on a treatment for Pompe disease. In less than a year, Crowley raised over $27 million for Novazyme. It quickly grew to a 100-person company and Genzyme acquired it for $225 million one of the largest amounts ever paid for a pre-clinical drug development company in biotech history. As a result, Crowley’s children began receiving potentially lifesaving therapy.
Crowley’s inspiring story was chronicled in the book, “The Cure,” and in this year’s box-office hit, “Extraordinary Measures,” starring Harrison Ford and Brendan Fraser.
“In the heart-felt spirit of aspiration, belief, and achievement, TUI University is pleased and proud to welcome Mr. Crowley,” stated Kenneth Sobaski, President of TUI. “His personal story of determination and hope are a model all those that face adversity. This promises to be our most inspirational graduation ceremony yet.”
TUI University, a leader in online undergraduate and graduate programs and one of the nation’s top military educators, will recognize 3,222 graduates of bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees at this year’s commencement.
About TUI University
Founded in 1998, TUI University has become a leading online postsecondary university. Its technology-enabled online learning model and solutions provide a convenient, cost-effective, and high-quality education to students. Students are able to complete all degree requirements in their home countries and at their own pace. TUI University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is based in Cypress, California.
