Desert Research Institute University and Community College System of Nevada P.O. Box 60220 Reno, Nevada 89506

Contact: John Doherty Public Information Office Reno (702) 673-7313 Las Vegas (702) 862-5414

Countess Angela Dandini Awarded DRI President's Medal

Countess Angela Dandini of Reno has been awarded the Desert Research Institute's Presidents Medal to recognize her years of support for the institute's community outreach programs. DRI President James V. Taranik said Mrs. Dandini, widow of Count Alessandro Dandini, established the annual Dandini Medal of Science award recognizing DRI's most outstanding scientist and has had a major role in numerous fund raising and community development campaigns for the institute over the years.

Dr. Alessandro Dandini, former special assistant to DRI's president, acquired the 450 acre site for the Dandini Research Park in Reno, home to DRI and Truckee Meadows Community College, Taranik said. "Angela has been an important focus of community support for DRI for many years. Because of her, the Dandini presence in the institute remains very strong."
He said the countess' role in developing the Countess Angela Dandini Garden between the two campuses, providing the Alessandro Dandini atrium addition to one of DRI's research facilities and providing the $1,000 prize for the Dandini Medal of Science have all been greatly appreciated by DRI. An annual $5,000 donation to the DRI faculty endowment also accompanies each medal award.

Countess Dandini served on the DRI Research Foundation, the institute's fund raising arm, and is now an emerita trustee.