Author: Dr. April Carswell, Chief of Staff, (ORA)
At Emory University, we take immense pride in the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support our research efforts. One such team, the Division of Animal Resources (DAR), led by the exemplary Dr. Deborah Mook, has demonstrated outstanding commitment and resilience in the face of extraordinary challenges in early 2025.
As winter storms and unexpected disruptions tested our institution, the DAR team showcased an unwavering commitment to animal welfare and research continuity. Their extraordinary response efforts ensured that research animals remained safe and well-cared for, despite the obstacles presented by extreme weather and infrastructure failures.
Winter Storm Cora (January 10-11)
When Winter Storm Cora swept through the region, bringing rapid snowfall and hazardous conditions, DAR stepped up without hesitation. Fifteen DAR staff members, including leadership and faculty, stayed overnight in offices and conference rooms across eight different sites, ensuring the continuity of care for research animals. Despite treacherous conditions, an additional seven personnel made it to work, reinforcing their team’s collective dedication. Throughout the storm, DAR leadership maintained close contact with Emory’s Office of Critical Event Preparedness and Response (CEPAR), sometimes at four-hour intervals, to coordinate efforts and respond to evolving conditions.
Water Main Break (January 15-17)
On the evening of January 15, an urgent notification from CEPAR alerted the university community that DeKalb County planned to turn off water to repair a major pipe on Clairmont Road. Recognizing the potential risks to research animals, two DAR leaders immediately reported to campus that night to ensure the animals had an adequate supply of drinking water and to protect automatic watering systems from sediment exposure. Over the next two days, as the campus operated under a boil water advisory, DAR staff worked creatively and diligently to ensure every research animal remained hydrated and cared for, demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills in a crisis.
Winter Storm Enzo (January 21-23)
Just days later, Winter Storm Enzo brought another significant challenge. Sixteen DAR team members, including leadership, faculty, and cage-wash staff, once again slept overnight in offices and conference rooms across eight sites to maintain uninterrupted care for research animals. As the university shifted to remote operations for three days, the DAR team remained on-site, prioritizing critical animal care needs.
As the storm passed and normal operations resumed, additional efforts were needed to address work that had been deprioritized during the emergency, such as washing cages. Rising to the occasion, DAR leaders assisted in cage-wash duties, veterinary staff provided additional animal care support, and numerous team members moved between buildings to ensure all necessary work was completed. By Friday, January 24, thanks to the dedication and teamwork of DAR, all operations were fully restored, and research efforts continued without disruption.
The resilience, dedication, and teamwork displayed by Dr. Mook and the entire DAR team are nothing short of inspiring. Their selfless efforts, quick thinking, and adaptability ensured that research animals were well cared for despite severe weather and infrastructure challenges. These unsung heroes exemplify the spirit of Emory University, demonstrating their commitment not only to research but also to the ethical and compassionate treatment of animals.
We are incredibly proud of the Division of Animal Resources and grateful for the hard work they put in every day. Their outstanding response during these recent events underscores their vital role in supporting Emory’s research mission.
To learn more about DAR and the incredible work they do, visit their website: Division of Animal Resources at Emory University.