CIRM NAMES CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Seasoned Executive Joins Stem Cell Institute

SAN FRANCISCO, August 17, 2006 – The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) announced today that it is naming Dale A. Carlson as its first Chief Communications Officer. The appointment is effective on Monday, August 21, 2006.

Carlson, 50, was most recently Vice President, Corporate Affairs with the Pacific Exchange, Inc., where for 18 years he directed press and media relations, government affairs, corporate and marketing communications, and investor relations. Long active in civic affairs, Carlson was a member of the San Francisco Library Commission during the financing and construction of the city’s New Main Library, and subsequently chairman of the San Francisco Library Foundation.

“We are indeed fortunate to have recruited Dale for this assignment,” said Dr. Zach Hall, CIRM’s President. “Carlson was chosen from over 100 applicants who applied. His skills and experience and, importantly, his passion for our mission make him superbly qualified for this job. We have high expectations for his capabilities.”

“I am delighted that someone with Dale’s talent and broad experience is joining our team,” added Robert Klein, Chairman of the Independent Citizens Oversight Committee, CIRM’s governing board. “He will make a strong, positive contribution to our efforts, and I am looking forward to working with him.”

“This is a great project, with a strong team, a dedicated board, and overwhelming public and private support,” said Carlson. “Through CIRM, California is a global leader in stem cell research in pursuit of therapies and cures to improve the lives of millions. Personally, it is an exceptional opportunity to combine my professional abilities with my dedication to public service. Great challenges lie ahead, but I am confident we will realize great success in this new scientific frontier.”

Carlson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in American history from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Masters from the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

About CIRM

Governed by the ICOC, CIRM was established in 2004 with the passage of Proposition 71, the California Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative. The statewide ballot measure, which provided $3 billion in funding for stem cell research at California universities and research institutions, was approved by California voters, and called for the establishment of an entity to 2 make grants and provide loans for stem cell research, research facilities, and other vital research opportunities. For more information, please visit www.cirm.ca.gov.

CIRM Contact: Contact: Kirk Kleinschmidt
  (415) 396-9100