Art Collins, chairman and CEO of Medtronic, gave the final Whiting-Turner lecture of the 2006-07 series. Photo by Al Santos.

Abstract
Collins will discuss how advances in traditional medical technology are being combined with advances in information technology, biotechnology and other breakthroughs to improve medical outcomes as well as provide more cost-effective delivery of care around the world. He will characterize the environment in which these advances are being made and highlight specific examples of how technology is either extending life or improving the quality of life for an increasing number of people. He will also highlight factors that either enhance or hinder innovation within the medical technology industry, while discussing Medtronic's approach to address both the opportunities and issues that lie ahead.

Biography
Art Collins assumed the role of chief executive officer of Medtronic, Inc. in April, 2001, and became chairman of the Board in April, 2002. He was elected Chief Operating Officer and member of the Board of Directors in 1994 and President in 1996. He joined the company in 1992 as Corporate Executive Vice President and President of Medtronic International with responsibility for all Medtronic operations outside the United States.

Medtronic is the largest medical technology company in the world with revenues of over $11 billion in the most recent fiscal year. Doing business in more than 120 countries, Medtronic's employment currently exceeds 35,000. In addition to having one of the most impressive records of sustained, superior financial performance, Medtronic is continually cited as one of the most admired companies in industry and has been singled out for its strong corporate governance and commitment to philanthropy and community involvement. It is interesting to note that the most important statistic tracked within the company is not found on the balance sheet or the income statement – it is that every five seconds someone, somewhere in the world receives a Medtronic product that either significantly improves or saves their life.

Collins joined Medtronic from Abbott Laboratories where he had been corporate vice president with responsibility for Abbott's worldwide diagnostic business units since 1986. He began his 14-year career with Abbott in 1978 as manager of corporate planning and development and moved to the Diagnostics Division a year later where he subsequently held a number of general management positions in the United States and Europe. He was elected a corporate officer in 1989.

Collins received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and a Doctor of Laws honorary degree from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Collins also holds a Master of Business Administration Degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was a member of the undergraduate faculty.

Collins serves on the Board of Directors of U.S. Bancorp and Cargill, Inc. He is a member of the Board of Overseers of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a member of the Board of The Institute of Health Technology Studies. He also was the previous chairman of AdvaMed, the medical technology industry association, and has served on the boards of numerous civic organizations. He remains active in a number of community and volunteer activities.