Nearly 1,000 cultural, corporate, building industry and political leaders attended the event, where DuPont Chairman and CEO Chad Holliday accepted the award on behalf of the company. Chad and DuPont Senior Vice President and Chief Science and Technology Officer Tom Connelly both addressed the contributions DuPont has made to building and design.
In his remarks, Chad said: "Much of the look, feel, utility and structure of modern life was brought to the world as a result of DuPont discoveries. The genius of DuPont scientists and engineers and the hard work of DuPont employees in plants and offices over many decades is what this award truly honors."
He said it means a great deal to DuPont employees to know that the company's products have made buildings safer, stronger, more beautiful, more comfortable and more efficient. "When employees who work in Kevlar® manufacturing hear that our product may have saved someone's life at The Pentagon, they have a renewed commitment to their work knowing what they make makes a difference," Chad said. "Likewise, when DuPont people drive by a construction site and see Tyvek® HomeWrap® or watch a home improvement show on television and see Corian® countertops they are proud to be part of the products that provide real value for homeowners."
Tom discussed how DuPont has transformed itself throughout its 200-year history and continues to fulfill its brand promise by bringing "The miracles of science®" to the world. "As we approach the start of our third century, the commitment to science as the way we create value continues at DuPont," he said. "We maintain a broad and deep science and technology capability. We connect that capability to existing and new market spaces."
Tom added: "One emerging opportunity area is safety and protection. After the tragic events of last September, new considerations will be factored into the design and construction of public building and other structures. To feel safe and secure in any building now takes on new meaning - and presents new challenges."
The NBM's Honor Award recognizes individuals and companies that have made significant contributions in the fields of architecture, planning, construction and building. The NBM is the only public institution in America devoted exclusively to examining and interpreting American achievements in building.
DuPont honored for contributions to building, design
At a ceremony yesterday in Washington, D.C., the National Building Museum (NBM) presented its prestigious 2002 Honor Award to DuPont in recognition of the profound impact the company's inventions and scientific achievements have had on the building and design industries.