Canadian University Press Releases/Newswire

Source: University of Northern British Columbia
http://www.unbc.ca/releases/2006/10_23husky.html

Husky Energy Enables Advanced Health Research in the North

October 23, 2006

The University of Northern British Columbia will be engaged in cutting-edge research on diabetes in children and the effects of environmental contaminants on health thanks to a donation from Husky Energy. The company has contributed $100,000 to UNBC to allow the University to purchase a Blood Glucose and Lipid Profile Auto Analyzer, which will be housed in the Dr. Donald Rix Northern Health Sciences Centre on campus.

The equipment is used in clinical settings and research projects to measure blood glucose levels, triglycerides, and so-called "good" (HDL) and "bad" (LDL) cholesterols. This single instrument aids in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Photo
Joining UNBC President Don Cozzetto (second from left) for the cheque presentation this morning in Calgary were Husky Energy officials (from left) Don Ingram, Rob Peabody, and Greg Calpas.

"Husky’s donation to this very worthwhile initiative reflects our corporate philosophy of supporting the communities where we do business," said Mr. John C.S. Lau, President & Chief Executive Officer, Husky Energy Inc. "This gift marks the completion of our Clean Fuels Project, as well as celebrates Husky’s 30th year of operations in the community of Prince George."

"This new equipment will allow us to engage in research into various forms of chronic disease where the capacity of early intervention through blood screening can greatly enhance health and disease prevention," says UNBC President Don Cozzetto. "Thank you to Husky Energy for making this research possible here."

UNBC has a particular focus on teaching and research in areas of health and human development. The Northern Medical Program currently accepts 24 students per year and the program’s first students are now engaged in clinical practice at Prince George Regional Hospital. Other programs include a bachelor’s degree program in Nursing, a new Bachelor of Health Sciences, and a master’s degree program to provide students with education as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Husky expanded and upgraded its Prince George light oil refinery to produce low sulphur gasoline and diesel fuel to meet the Government of Canada’s new fuel specifications. Refinery throughput increased from 10,000 to 12,000 barrels per day when the Clean Fuels Project was completed in May 2006.

Husky’s refinery produces all grades of unleaded gasoline, seasonal diesel fuels, a propane and butane mix, and heavy fuel oil. The refinery supplies both Husky’s and industry’s refined products needs for central and northern B.C. The local operation employs 84 people.

Contact:
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC - 250.960.5622