[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 28, 2014)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E853] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. MICHAEL SEVERINO ______ HON. PETER J. ROSKAM of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 28, 2014 Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Severino, M.D., an outstanding physician from Illinois. Recently, AbbVie, a cutting-edge pharmaceutical company with a large Illinois presence, named Dr. Severino Executive Vice President of Research and Development (R&D) and Chief Scientific Officer. AbbVie's selection of Dr. Severino to lead corporate innovation and product development reflects a company-wide commitment to developing new therapies and continuing to push the bio-tech industry to new frontiers. Dr. Severino's responsibilities will include leading AbbVie's R&D, Medical Affairs and Regulatory Affairs organizations, bringing his years of experience to bear on guiding the company's 7,000 worldwide employees engaged in scientific discovery. Collectively, they will be working to develop a steady stream of new medicines for patients. Dr. Severino has most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at AbbVie. He is a leader in clinical development strategy across therapeutic areas including immunology, neuroscience, oncology and cardiovascular disease. Over ten years at AbbVie, Dr. Severino has consistently taken on positions of increasing responsibility, particularly in the area of R&D. AbbVie's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Gonzalez, praised Dr. Severino stating, ``We are fortunate to have a leader of his caliber to steer our efforts to develop treatments for today's toughest health challenges. He will be instrumental in moving our pipeline and strategy forward.'' Mr. Speaker, and my distinguished colleagues in the House, please join me in congratulating Dr. Severino on his new position and wishing him many future successes as he works to understand and treat a wide array of ailments to help others live happier, healthier lives. ____________________