Dear Trustees, Members, and Friends of the National Institute —
By now, I have no doubt that all of you are well aware that the world is under a serious pandemic attack by the novel coronavirus know as COVID-19. I have no wish to clog your communications with yet another message of solidarity, no matter how useful or welcome, but I did want to share with each of you with a few important messages.
First, this is a trying time for all of us, and we all must do our part to slow the spread of the virus, especially among the old, the sick, and the vulnerable, as well as the health care workers who are their first comfort and our first line of defense. Unlike many other crises which this country has faced in the recent past, this pandemic will attack every city, every town, and every community before it is done. Also unlike some of these other crises, the COVID-19 pandemic is something each and every one of us can fight. Wash your hands frequently, avoid large gatherings, and stay at home as much as you can. These are simple prescriptions, but they can and will make a huge difference in how this crisis plays out and in who and how many of us get sick. Also be aware that scientists currently believe you can have the virus and infect other people without experiencing any symptoms yourself. Do not put others at risk—especially the old and infirm—just because you believe you are healthy.
Second, as most of you know by now, the chief public health response at this stage is to “flatten the curve,” that is, slow the spread of the virus through the population so our critical care healthcare system is not overwhelmed by desperately sick cases, as is happening so tragically in Italy and other nations. Do everything you can to prevent yourself from spreading the disease, even unknowingly.
Third, take care of yourself and your loved ones. Follow the advice of trusted healthcare professionals. They will have the best and most up-to-date knowledge on how to fight and cure the virus. Evidence-based medicine and public health practices are society’s best hope to get through this intact.
As far as the National Institute is concerned, we are planning no events in the near future in New York City other than our New York Issues Discussion Luncheon, which normally occurs in June. We are monitoring the situation closely and will keep you informed as our plans develop.
Out of an abundance of caution, our Florida Chapter has decided to cancel the April 8th Luncheon with guest of honor Brigadier General Pete Dawkins. Anyone who has purchased tickets to this event will be refunded in full. We agree completely with our Florida Chapter leadership that this is the correct decision and look forward to seeing their event rescheduled when conditions permit.
In the meantime, we remain fully committed to our three-fold Mission:
To promote the study of the social sciences,
To support social science research and discussion, and
To honor individuals who have rendered distinguished service to humanity.
Our Grants Committee is currently reviewing candidate submissions for our newly re-instituted Dissertation Grants Program and will announce their selection of winners in due course. In consultation with our distinguished speakers, we look forward to announcing a New York Issues Discussion Luncheon program and date soon, and we continue to plan for our 106th Annual Gold Medal Dinner on Wednesday, December 2nd. Your dedicated Trustees and Events Committee will continue to look for opportunities to put on high quality, interesting educational programs to address pressing social issues as time and public safety conditions permit.
The current crisis in this country and the world is a good example of the reason the National Institute was originally created: to address questions of pressing social importance with the powerful tools and practices of the social sciences. We remain fully committed to this purpose, and we look forward to your continued support of our efforts.
Take care of yourselves and your loved ones, stay safe, and stay healthy.
Sincerely,
Fred Larsen
President, Board of Trustees
The National Institute of Social Sciences