Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences

CIRES Celebrates an Anniversary

September 27, 2002

In 1967 a new institute was born at the University of Colorado, a vision of government and academic researchers and administrators who created an environment within which NOAA and University scientists from diverse fields could conduct interdisciplinary research. Thirty-five years later, CIRES is the largest of the NOAA Joint Institutes Program, now with 13 institutes throughout the country. From a nascent organization of a handful of scientists, we have grown to comprise over 500 individuals, from undergraduates to professors emeritus, conducting pacesetting research in a broad range of environmental topics.

We are honored that you have joined us on this day of celebration at the institute to look back at our accomplishments and ahead to our future. The past 35 years have seen many changes at CIRES, and the future promises no less. The only thing that is unchanging is our dedication to excellence.

Our celebration this year coincides with two other events of note, the retirements of Lynn Walloch and John Birks. Almost everyone who has been associated with CIRES has known Lynn, as she has been our chief administrative officer for 29 years. John arrived at CU in 1977, an associate professor in the Department of Chemistry. We will be saying a very fond farewell to them as they retire.

CIRES first official logo from 1972-1980

CIRES Logo from 1980-1993

CIRES' current logo