Innovators Solve Challenging Issues, Improve Millions of Lives Worldwide

Renowned Philanthropist and Social Entrepreneur Jeff Skoll Also Recognized


SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 15, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- When American Dr. Laura Stachel traveled to Nigeria she was outraged by the country's unimaginable birthing conditions: sporadic electricity, unreliable communications equipment, and no sign of blood bank refrigeration systems.

The longtime obstetrician/gynecologist's response? Stachel, along with her husband Hal Aronson, developed WE CARE Solar (Women's Emergency Communication and Reliable Electricity), which includes a "solar suitcase" to provide emergency lighting and power for medical procedures. The suitcase has been installed in 80 clinics in Africa, Asia, and Central America, and was used for disaster relief in Haiti.

Come October 20, Stachel, of Berkeley, CA., and 14 fellow laureates from around the world will be honored for their efforts in using technology to benefit humanity during Silicon Valley's foremost awards program, The Tech Awards. The event takes place at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, CA.

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CONTACT:  Roqua Montez

          Director Public Relations

          +1 (408) 795-6225

          rmontez@thetech.org

          Anne Heise

          Ogilvy Public Relations

          (916) 764-8262

          anne.heise@ogilvypr.com