and UAB emerge as the biotech commercialization leaders in the Southeast." He also showcased the ongoing success of UAB's Harbert Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which in FY2021 generated more than $5 million in revenue, 19 U.S. patents, and 120 Intellectual Property disclosures (and increase of 50 percent over the previous year). On April 11, 2022, Watts and other senior UAB leadership joined Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, University of Alabama System Chancellor Finis St. John IV and System trustees, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and other state and elected officials, and donors Lee Styslinger III and Dr. Marnix Heersink at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Altec/Styslinger Genomic Medicine and Data Sciences Building. In his remarks, Watts noted, "This state-of-the-art facility we break ground for today will be iconic in its architecture and profound in its impact—locally, statewide, and globally—for generations to come. It is monumental in many respects. It represents leadership in the future of patient care and precision medicine—developing the most advanced, personalized care (based on unique genetic make-up) to vastly improve health throughout our state and well beyond....[It] also represents increased national and global competitiveness of both UAB and the state of Alabama—in research, innovation, commercialization, and economic development....And, finally, this facility represents the power of our public/private partnership—among UAB and the UA System, individual and corporate donors, our business community, and our city, county, and state leadership—to drive better health and prosperity for the people of Alabama, whom we proudly serve." UAB and the city of Birmingham hosted the 2022 World Games from July 7 through July 17. UAB played a central role as a World Games Foundation Partner and official medical provider, and UAB campus was home to the Athlete's Village housing athletes and coaches. On July 6, Watts sent a newsletter to the UAB community thanking them for their support and involvement. "Anticipation builds as we approach tomorrow's opening of the World Games 2022. Our residence halls have transformed into the Athletes' Village....and our Campus Recreation Center, Track & Field facilities, and PNC Field will soon be filled with athletes and fans from across the globe....I want to thank all of you across our academic and clinical enterprises who are playing a role in this historic event. Your dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to excellence...is contributing to the success of the World Games and helping showcase UAB, Birmingham, and the State of Alabama on a global stage.