The NYC Pandemic Response Institute will become the NYC Preparedness & Recovery Institute (PRI). This change reflects the breadth of our focus on preparedness and recovery for all public health emergencies, ensuring a stronger and more resilient New York City.
Launched in 2022 by the City of New York, PRI is a resource that engages diverse organizations, institutions, and communities to build a cohesive and comprehensive preparedness and recovery network. Led by ICAP at Columbia University with key partner, the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy (CUNY SPH), PRI was created to strengthen NYC’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from major health emergencies.
PRI is always active, always ready—even between emergencies, we work to build resilience, promote preparedness and ensure an equitable response to these threats. Our whole-of-society approach brings together government agencies, health institutions, businesses, community groups and academic centers to drive impactful change.
Over the past three years, PRI has strengthened crisis coordination across NYC, influenced public health policies on COVID-19 risk assessments and mpox diagnostics, and advanced epidemiological modeling to better predict and respond to infectious diseases and climate-related threats. We have also developed innovative data-sharing projects to amplify community voices in emergencies, funded new tools and technologies to enhance emergency preparedness, and established the CDC-supported Region 2 Center for Public Health Preparedness and Response (PHPR) while also coordinating the network these regional centers across the country.
Why the Name Change?
This change reflects our broad role in public health preparedness and recovery:
- Broader Scope: Preparedness and Recovery reflects the focus of PRI on the wide range of public health challenges, such as climate-related disasters, environmental hazards, infectious agents, gun violence, and terrorism.
- Long-Term Relevance: Public health threats are constantly evolving. Our new name ensures that we remain future-proof and adaptable to emerging and unforeseen challenges. Also the new name makes it clear that we are here to help before, during, and after emergencies.
- Sustainability: Supporters and funders increasingly focus on broader public health priorities beyond pandemics. Our new name positions us to secure the resources needed to continue supporting NYC.
What’s Next?
In the coming months, you will begin to see our new name reflected across our work, including in:
- Updates to our reports, signage, and digital communications.
- A revised website that will better highlight our work, resources, and impact.
- Collaboration with government agencies, academic institutions, businesses, and local organizations.
PRI will continue to advance preparedness, build resilience, and promote public health throughout the five boroughs of NYC and around the globe. We are excited for this next chapter and look forward to continuing our work as the NYC Preparedness & Recovery Institute—building a healthier, stronger, and more resilient city for all. Interested in working with PRI? Email us at info@pri.nyc to learn more.