Ohio Northern University faculty member Dr. Dennis De Luca was recognized Friday by Lima Memorial Health System for his role in bringing COVID-19 testing to the greater Lima region.

The event also recognized Ohio Northern University. Click here for addtional background on the testing.

Lima Memorial Health System and Ohio Northern University partnered to bring PCR molecular testing for COVID-19 to the region earlier this year.

Dr. De Luca, associate professor of biological sciences and a molecular specialist, helped lead the initiative on behalf of ONU. 

Accoridng to a news release from Lima Memorial: "Dr. De Luca provided leadership and continues to provide technical consultation on this project.

"Ohio Northern University was recognized for the institution’s collaboration to address a critical health need in our region.

"As a result, Lima Memorial is a regional testing center for hospitals and facilities throughout the region, providing reliable and timely results.

“We value our longstanding partnership with ONU and appreciate Dr. De Luca’s dedication and effort to lead this initiative.

"Dr. De Luca has provided countless hours of insight, research, expertise and guidance to bring this highly accurate testing to our greater Lima region,” said Mike Swick, President amd CEO of Lima Memorial Health System.