Hot Courses

The Businesses of Preparing for Emergencies

More and more businesses are realizing the importance of having a continuity plan that workers can turn to in the face of emergencies. Businesses small and large are crafting plans to prepare for, respond to, and recover from events such as a natural disaster, terrorist attack, or disease outbreak. Students in University of Minnesota professor John Shutske’s course were able to tap into his professional network on a “real-world” emergency planning exercise with the Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC).

Special Laws in Emergencies

Hurricane Katrina, an influenza pandemic, and a host of other real and potential public health disasters have spurred an examination of laws on the books regarding public health emergencies. Steve Shakman, legal affairs coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Preparedness, says knowledge of public health law is essential for public health practitioners at all levels. Shakman and Karen Janisch, general counsel to Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, co-taught a new institute course this year.

Caring for Animals in Emergencies

If an emergency or disaster were to happen, the Minnesota Zoo has plans in place to ensure its more than 2,000 animals, staff, and visitors remain safe. Still, there’s always more to learn, says Michelle Willette, a Minnesota Zoo veterinarian. That’s why she was one of 19 students who enrolled