URI_Research_Magazine_Momentum_Fall_2020_Melissa-McCarthy

Donated CPAP and BiPAP devices arrive at URI.

protecting health care workers from exposure to the virus, and big picture, to delay or alleviate the need to intubate patients. In addition, each unit has been packaged with detailed instructions, which were printed by URI’s Printing Services, on how to use it. These units could also be used in U.S. hospitals as a way to delay or prevent intubation.” Doctors and hospitals were extremely receptive to this effort, and many of the distributed systems now are saving lives around the world. As for the speed with which URI was able to offer and prepare the Memorial Union, Professor Peter Snyder, the University’s vice president for Research and Economic Development, said many people played a role in making the operation a success. “The fact that the planning, setup, operation and breaking down took place in a matter of weeks was impressive,” Snyder said. “Kathy Collins, vice president for Student Affairs, was essential in making the building available to us, and URI Dining Services responded immediately. VP Collins’ senior leadership who oversee dining services and the Memorial Union, notably Pierre St.-Germain, Carl Stiles, and Brad Irish, all responded to our needs immediately and with tremendous generosity and enthusiasm.” Snyder said the partners came together quickly to make the project happen. He called Pete Rumsey, director of Rhode Island Innovation Campuses for the Rhode Island Commerce Corp., as well as George Nickolopoulos, formerly of URI’s Business Engagement Center, who became the two quarterbacks of the effort; Air Force Col. Erik Brine, the logistical director; and backbone, Alex Hornstein, a brilliant MIT-educated entrepreneur,

URI Printing Services’ Ed DeLeiter laminating instructions for people receiving the donated CPAP and BiPAP devices. Photo by Amy Joy Davis.

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