FROM THE PRESIDENT OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY
Eileen Barroso
Solomon to lead the charge as director of the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, the Earth Institute’s largest research unit, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. The combination of Dr. Solomon’s distinguished record with the Observatory’s long history of technical excellence promises an exciting and productive new chapter in scientific discovery at Columbia.
Yet another landmark year in the history of the Earth Institute has passed. Under Jeff Sachs’s leadership this unique and distinctive collaboration continues to strengthen Columbia University’s reputation as a dynamic, forward-thinking academic institution devoted to harnessing the power of its resources and scientific expertise and applying them to the most pressing issues facing society today. This work not only sets Columbia apart, it also provides evidence of the indispensable role that the academic community plays in creating practical solutions to global concerns. Working across schools and disciplines, we are forging a better future for our increasingly interconnected and complex world. With more than 10 years of distinction in science, policy, research, and education, the Earth Institute continues to attract to our University world-class faculty, students and staff who are devoted to our mission and vision. This year we appointed Dr. Sean
We also opened the doors to three new global centers, in Santiago, Chile; Istanbul, Turkey; and Nairobi, Kenya. These new centers, along with those existing, provide the Columbia and Earth Institute communities with unmatched opportunities for pursuing research projects and offering hands-on educational immersions. Columbia’s Global Centers promote and facilitate important international collaborations, investigational endeavors, and academic and study abroad programs that enhance our historic commitment to global scholarship and globally relevant solutions. I am so thankful to the donors who have made all this possible. We could not remain at the forefront of sustainable research nor educate the outstanding young scholars and practitioners who will continue this rich tradition of excellence without your faith and support. Because of you, Columbia University, with the Earth Institute, is positioned to respond to the challenges facing our planet today and our children tomorrow. With gratitude,
Lee C. Bollinger
The Earth Institute, Columbia University