Washington, DC, December 2001 (PAHO) - On the morning of January 7, 2002, a huge banner announcing the beginning of the centennial celebration will be hung between the two flagpoles in front of PAHO Headquarters and smaller flags will adorn the lampposts that surround headquarters. A spirited and upbeat atmosphere will greet staff as they come to work. Invitations have been sent to staff and special invited guests. All who enter the building will know that something special will be happening that morning.

Music will lead the guests into Room A and a list of "100 ways to celebrate 100 years of health" to honor the centennial will be handed out. At 10:00 a.m. the ceremony will begin with the showing of a short video about PAHO and its work over the century. Dr. Alleyne will officially launch the centennial year with the announcement of centennial poster, essay and journalism contests. There will be special guests from the District of Columbia, a well-known keynote speaker and a retiree will offer some historical anecdotes.

The ceremony will conclude with the opening of the centennial time capsule that will be filled by staff and others with predictions for the future of the organization and international public health. Video highlights of the ceremony will be available here at the centennial web page, where you can also read more about the time capsule.

Related information: Pan American Health Organization Centennial Underway