Southeastern Professor to participate in International Dialogue on Earthquake Response

by SOUTHEASTERN PUBLIC INFORMATION
November 6, 2008

DURANT, Okla. -- Southeastern Oklahoma State University's Dr. Jon Reid, Professor of Psychology and Counseling, will be one of the featured speakers at the Global Dialogue on "Wenchuan Earthquake Response: Challenges and Governance," Nov. 12 in Chengdu of Sichuan Province of China.

Reid earned his B.A. at Midwestern State University, his Ph.D. at Texas Woman's University, and joined the Southeastern faculty in 1993.

Participants in the Dialogue will include government officials, NGOs, and academic researchers.

Dr. Reid, a Fellow in Thanatology, the Association for Death Education and Counseling, will also participate in field trips to help understand the disaster impacts more directly.

Reid said, "I'm quite honored to be invited to attend the Global Dialogue and to provide some assistance to those who will be working directly with survivors and their families.

"The psychological impact of the May 12th earthquakes and related events will continue for years to come. Yet, with logistical support and mental health support, we hope to reduce the suffering."

The Dialogue is aimed at enhancing global communication on disaster relief and preparedness while helping push forward with the rebuilding of disaster-affected communities in Sichuan Province, as well as the development of strategies to prepare for future disasters.

Reid's presentation is titled "Grief Counseling for Trauma Survivors."

The Global Dialogue organization is sponsored by Beijing Normal University, P.R, China; Hong Kong University, Hong Kong SAR; and Chengdu Municipal Government, Sichuan Province, P.R. China.

Supporters of the organization include the World Bank, Ford Foundation, United Nations International Strategy of Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), Development Program (UNDP); and Children's Fund (UNICEF).