October 12, 2018
Bulletin interne de l'Institut Pasteur
Several of you came along on Wednesday to the launch event for the 12th Pasteurdon to find out all about this year's edition of the annual Institut Pasteur campaign to raise awareness and funds. The event reflected just how much support there is for the Institut Pasteur's research.
The 12th edition of Pasteurdon officially got under way with opening addresses by Stewart Cole, President of the Institut Pasteur, Jean-François Chambon, Vice-President Communications and Fundraising, and Erik Orsenna, Ambassador for the Institut Pasteur.
Their presentations were unexpectedly lively thanks to the contribution of some Institut Pasteur staff who had come along determined to "support scientists and defend research" by making some noise with whistles, rattle drums and various research accessories! Their cheerful musical accompaniment created a great atmosphere and got everyone in the mood for Pasteurdon.
Thanks to the "noisy and happy Pasteurians", including StaPa, Pasteurale and all of you who have been planning to promote the values of sharing, generosity and commitment to the cause.
It was swiftly followed by a full rundown of this year's edition, made possible by the unwavering support of our TV and radio partners. Alongside the many Institut Pasteur staff, several of the journalists and presenters from the partner TV channels and radio stations came along to the launch event, where they enjoyed an exclusive preview of the launch clip, appeal films, short programs and radio spots.
The ever loyal and generous Pasteurdon patron, Alexandra Lamy, was unfortunately unable to attend this year's launch because of filming commitments, but she sent a heartfelt message of support, wishing us every success for this latest Pasteurdon and reiterating her appreciation for the work carried out by the Institut Pasteur's scientists.
Watch the message from Alexandre Lamy
Also invited to the launch event were the Institut Pasteur's corporate partners - long-standing partner the Le Roch-Les Mousquetaires Foundation, as well as AG2R LA MONDIALE and Assu 2000 - who offered strong expressions of support.
All eyes then turned to Françoise Barré-Sinoussi, a special guest for this 12th edition. Ten years after the scientist was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology for discovering HIV, she emphasized her continued commitment to science and stressed how important it is to support scientists and defend research. She was then presented with a bouquet of flowers by Stewart Cole.
After the speeches, the audience – rallied by the noisy accompaniment – got stuck into the activities available in the CIS hall, with many agreeing to have their photo taken on their own or in groups to promote the slogans associated with the 2018 campaign. A banner was also set up to give people the opportunity to leave a message – once again reflecting the spirit of this year's Pasteurdon.
The ceremony was followed by an enjoyable drinks reception.
Many thanks to all those who came along to support this new edition of Pasteurdon.
Make sure you're comfortably settled on your sofa on Friday evening, from 8.30pm, as the Pasteurdon broadcasts get under way on your favorite TV channels. And let's continue defending research together!
Consult the Pasteurdon 2018 press kit
Revive the lauch of the 12th edition of Pasteurdon
Photos : François gardy, Jean-François Charles