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REMARKS BY:	DONNA E. SHALALA, SECRETARY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 
PLACE:		Inauguration of  Sir George Alleyne, Washington, D.C.
DATE:		February 8, 1999

INAUGURATION

In his recent report to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Dr. Alleyne reminded all of us that the leadership of organizations - like the leadership of individuals - can never truly be passed on to any of us by right, but must be earned by each of us through our deeds.

And that's why I'm particularly proud to be here this evening - and join in acknowledging those deeds.

Because by that measure, Dr. Alleyne has distinguished himself as a leader time and again.

All of us, of course, have been the beneficiary of Dr. Alleyne's tireless work.

But, even more, each of us has been inspired by the depth of his commitment and the breadth of his vision.

Through the course of his tenure, Dr. Alleyne has succeeded in keeping PAHO on the front lines. And, in the process, helped countless families throughout the Americas to enjoy healthier, safer lives.

But, even more important than where Dr. Alleyne has already taken PAHO is where he plans to lead it.

That's why, at this inauguration, I'm proud to reaffirm my Administration's commitment - and my own personal pledge - to continue to work closely with him in the years ahead to realize our shared vision of `health for all' throughout the Americas.

In just three, short years we will observe the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Pan American Sanitary Bureau, the forerunner of today's PAHO.

And, Dr. Alleyne, on behalf of the public health community in the United States, let me tell you that we cannot think of anyone better suited to lead this incredible organization into its second hundred years.

A generation ago, Robert Kennedy would often quote Shaw and reflect that while some would see things as they are and ask `why,' he would dreams things that never were and ask `why not?'

In much the same way, Dr. Alleyne, you have challenged us all to look beyond the crisis of the moment and envision a time when every family in the Americas is able to enjoy the good health God intended.

With your continued leadership, tonight we can all ask "why not?"

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