After receiving a degree in chemistry from West Virginia University in 1962, Jack E. Parr went on to a distinguished professional career developing medical devices, and demonstrating innovation and knowledge in the orthopedic and surgical fields.
For his contributions and service, he has earned the 2010 Eberly College of Arts and Sciences Alumni Recognition Award.
The Eberly College alumni award recognizes individuals whose life reflects the commitment and excitement which broadly educated arts and sciences scholars bring to their life pursuits. The award seeks to acknowledge the important contributions Eberly alumni are making in their communities and within their professions.
Parr is chair and CEO of Extremity Innovations Inc., in Cordova, Tenn., and president of Medical Technology Development Inc., in Memphis, Tenn. Under his leadership both companies have been recognized for producing innovative medical device solutions, technology and products.
Extremity Innovations, a medical startup with just three employees, discovers, develops, manufactures and sells medical devices and treatments for diseases and injuries of the feet and hands.
Medical Technology Development is a consulting company that helps large and small companies focus on product placement and development, and also assist surgeons with idea development and commercialization.
Previously, Parr worked at Wright Medical Technology Inc., Pentron Industries and Zimmer Inc., a division of Bristol-Myers Squibb, and his career includes 14 patents.
He was elected a fellow in the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, received the University of Memphis Herff Distinguished Service Award and is a member of the Herff College of Engineering advisory council.
A native of Tyler County, W.Va., Parr earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from WVU in 1962, and went on to receive a doctorate in organic chemistry at Purdue University in 1967.
He has held numerous positions within the ASTM F-4 Committee for Medical and Surgical Devices and Materials, ASTM International Board of Directors, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, University of Memphis, University of Tennessee, Society for Biomaterials, AAOS Industry Advisory Council and Orthopedic Device Forum.
The Eberly College of Arts and Sciences established the Alumni Recognition Award in 1998 as a way to bring attention to the continuing value and importance of an arts and sciences education in the 21st century.
Recipients are invited to campus to accept their award. During their visit, they are able to meet and discuss ideas and issues with students and faculty. To insure permanent recognition, a plaque with the names of recipients is mounted in Woodburn Hall.
Parr will accept his award at the Eberly College’s annual awards and honors recognition ceremony on Saturday, April 10 at 9:30 a.m. in the Mountainlair Blue Ballroom.
For more information, contact Bonnie Fisher at (304) 293-4611 or Bonnie.Fisher@mail.wvu.edu.
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