Rep. Steny Hoyer, left, USC President C.L. Max Nikias and LA City Councilman Jose Huizar arrive at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research. (USC Photo/Gus Ruelas)

Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland made USC one of his key stops during a visit to Los Angeles this week.

Hoyer, the second-ranking member of Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives, joined USC President C. L. Max Nikias, Provost Michael Quick, Senior Vice President of University Relations Thomas S. Sayles and Provost Professors Andy McMahon and Ray Stevens — director of The Bridge Institute — for breakfast at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research. The group discussed several priority issues including basic research funding, college access and the potential for biotechnology as an economic driver in Los Angeles and nationally.

“Accelerating the development of the biotechnology industry in Los Angeles will not only promote life saving and life extending innovations, it will also dramatically boost job growth,” Nikias said. “Congressman Hoyer has a unique appreciation for this potential, and we are grateful for his support in elevating the growth of biotechnology to a national priority.”

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