President’s Message

We live in an age of cautious optimism. While we all hope for the best, the realities of events like 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and similar disasters make us mindful of the need to be prepared.

Another serious threat is the potential arrival of avian flu, the H5N1 virus. Some scientists have even predicted the possibility of a global outbreak of pandemic proportions in the near future. To learn more about pandemic flu, consult excellent Web sites like www.PandemicFlu.gov.

To address the possibility of such an occurrence, last year the College convened a committee that was charged with developing a pandemic flu preparedness plan for SUNY Cortland. Similar committees are being formed on campuses across the nation.

I strongly endorse Cortland’s plan and encourage all students, faculty and staff to learn more about this deadly virus. It is important for us as a community to understand not only what it is, but the threats it can pose and how to prepare both as a campus and at home in the event that pandemic flu strikes.

Advance preparation will be the key to combating this terrible threat. As the College moves forward with its proactive planning, we will continue to keep the community informed.

Erik J. Bitterbaum
President