IWR Discusses Change at 40th Anniversary Celebration and Symposium

ALEXANDRIA, VA – May 14, 2010. On Monday, April 12, 2010, IWR held its 40th Anniversary water symposium at the culmination of its celebration of "40 Years of Excellence in Water Resources." The symposium was based on the theme "IWR 2020: Adapting the Corps Role to a Changing Environment," and featured a panel discussion, an induction of distinguished employees and the unveiling of the 40th Anniversary timeline. These activities were followed by a social event and camaraderie for all participants.

Mr. Robert A. Pietrowsky, Director, IWR, opened the symposium by welcoming attendees and recognizing special guests. He spoke of the series of workshops the Institute has hosted in recent months leading up to the 40th anniversary celebration and of the challenge to change over the years.

The Honorable Jo-Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, and Mr. Steven L. Stockton, Director of Civil Works, HQUSACE, provided the opening remarks. Ms. Darcy reviewed the history of IWR and its achievements over the past 40 years before turning her attention to the future. Mr. Stockton focused on the value of IWR and also spoke of the future.

Four former Institute leaders were inducted into IWR’s Gallery of Distinguished Employees. Mr. Darrell Norlton, IWR Group Manager, presented Mr. Michael R. Krouse for induction. Mr. Robert A. Pietrowsky, Director, IWR, presented Mr. Michael R. Walsh. Mr. Darryl Davis, former HEC Director, presented Mr. Arlen D. Feldman, P.E. Dr. Jim Johnson, former Chief of Planning, HQUSACE, presented Mr. Kyle E. Schilling, P.E., D.WRE.

The Symposium featured a panel discussion based on the theme "IWR 2020: Adapting the Corps Role to a Changing Environment." Dr. Len Shabman from Resources for the Future led the discussion while Dr. John Boland of Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Denise Reed of the University of New Orleans, and Dr. Gerry Galloway of the University of Maryland shared their perspectives on the symposium theme.

At the reception, Mr. Pietrowsky unveiled the 40th Anniversary timeline. Lt. Gen. (USA-Ret.) Henry J. (Hank) Hatch spoke during the group dinner.

More about the 40th Anniversary Celebration

IWR conducted a series of seminars on the past, present and future of its centers and areas of emphasis. The achievements of HEC and the Navigation Data Center were profiled, as well as the history of IWR's work in conflict resolution, risk management and international activities. Numerous historical vignettes have been published on the IWR website to highlight key activities from the Institute's past. IWR is proud to honor those who have contributed their dedication and service to the Institute and the Nation over the preceding 40 years.

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