On May 17, 1999, George Rathmann, Chair of Bothell-based ICOS Corp. and Chair Emeritus of Amgen, was named the first recipient of the Biotechnology Heritage Award recognizing his distinguished career as a scientist and entrepreneur.

The award, sponsored by the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) and the Chemical Heritage Foundation, was presented at the BIO ’99 International Meeting & Exhibition in Seattle. The honor recognizes individuals whose career has contributed significantly to the growth of biotechnology through discovery, innovation, commercialization or public understanding.