Dean's Message Regarding Economic Challenges
March 5, 2009
Dear College of Public Health Faculty, Staff, and Students:
We are all very much concerned by current economic conditions in Iowa and the nation, and the resulting impact on our University and college. I have been meeting regularly in recent weeks with leaders at the University level – President Mason, Provost Loh, Vice President True, and others – as well as the deans of other UI colleges to assess the current situation and begin to develop strategies to cope with anticipated budget reductions in the coming fiscal year. One of the most challenging aspects of the present time period is that, while there is an abundance of “news” about the economy, we do not as yet have specific information concerning the magnitude of potential reductions in the University budget. In fact, it may be several more weeks before the University budget for fiscal year 2010 comes into clearer focus. The UI has posted the most current UI budget information and an estimated timeline for the budget process.
I have also engaged CPH Department Heads and the college’s Executive Committee in a process designed to elicit their ideas and suggestions for savings in all areas of the College of Public Health budget, particularly in areas supported by the General Education Fund. The process of developing cost-saving strategies continues and I am eager to hear the ideas and suggestions of all faculty, staff, and students. I invite you to attend one of the open forums that have been scheduled on:
- Monday, March 23 at 4 PM in 124/125 IREH
- Tuesday, March 24 at 3:30 PM in SE301 GH – Bean Conf Rm
Despite the present uncertainties, I am confident that the College of Public Health is well-positioned to weather these difficulties and emerge a strong and vibrant force in academic public health. Our faculty continue to compete successfully for research grants and provide national and international leadership in their disciplines. Our students are engaged in their educational programs and are preparing for productive careers in professions that have tremendous need of their skills. Our staff members play a vital role in attaining our collegiate mission. We are delighted by the impressive progress taking place at the site of our future academic home. (If you have not had the opportunity to see the recent developments in person, please pay a visit to the building web cam).
I look forward to the bright future of this still-young college, and I thank you for all you are doing to bring it about.
Sincerely,
Sue
Susan Curry, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Public Health