From The President:Summer 2013
Dear Friends of TASSA,
What a month June was! As everyone was looking forward to the start of the Summer of 2013, we were all hit and shaken by the events of Gezi Park. The TASSA Board and Executive Committee members were alarmed by the treatment of the demonstrators at the Gezi Park issue. We sent a statement to our mailing list, expressing our concerns about the excessive use of force against the demonstrators. The statement was sent with good intentions; with the only goal of supporting freedom of expression in our motherland. Our concern was, and still is, treatment of peaceful demonstrators. We are hoping that our position will contribute to progress of democracy and sustainable economic development in Turkey.
This issue of The Bridge features many recognitions of Turkish scientists in the United States. Their accomplishments make us all proud and bring us some happiness during these tough days. The Turkish Science Diaspora work very hard for the betterment of life on earth and it is very pleasing to see that their hard work receive the recognition they deserve. And please note that, the successes we feature are only a sample so to give a more complete representation please share your accomplishments with us. Let us feature them and let the whole world know about your hard work.
Finally, I would like to announce a change of duty at The Bridge. Ms. Aylin Sagay, who has been doing the editorial work for The Bridge since the beginning, has asked to be relieved from her duties at TASSA. Aylin has conceptualized, designed, and issued The Bridge issues. It is a tedious job and she has excelled in giving the readers a first class newsletter. We will miss her but she will continue supporting our activities when necessary.
We were lucky to convince Ms. Sena Sahin to assume the editorial responsibilities of The Bridge. She is an IT expert coming from Penn State. You will observe a format change in this issue of The Bridge, which we owe to Sena’s creative design. With Sena’s help we will do our best to give you the best Newsletter possible.
All the Best,
Haluk Unal
TASSA President