Dear Howard: My friend, Mr. William E. Robinson, tells me that you are to take part in the Diamond Jubilee Convocation of the University Hospital of the New York University-Bellevue Medical Center, on March fourth and fifth.1 I hear that your topic will be "The Conservation of Human Resources," a subject that we have discussed many times over a span of more than ten years.
When our wartime experience was still fresh and stark in memory, you and I started talking on the urgent need for a thorough study of America's human resources and for a comprehensive approach to their conservation.2
In time, with the help of many others equally concerned about minds and skills wasted or neglected or ill-used, we were able to do one thing that has proved realistic and far reaching-- the establishment of the Conservation of Human Resources project at Columbia University.3
As you review its development, you can report great progress in our knowledge of the mistakes we have made heretofore and in our understanding of what must be done to correct and to use better all the talents of our people, for the good of the individual himself and of the Republic.
A substantial start has been made. But an ever sharper awareness is needed that our nation's strength is rooted in the minds, in the creative talents, in the ingenuity and genius of our people. This mighty resource we dare not waste; rather we must use it fully and wisely, if we are to continue prosperous and strong, able to work for peace.
The theme of the Convocation--"The Hope of Mankind--Health and Peace"--crystallizes our talking and thinking of more than ten years ago. I know that in your discussion of Human Resources within that framework, you will increase the consciousness of an important national responsibility, and the will, among our people, to discharge it.
With best wishes to all who are participating in this important Convocation, and warm personal regard, As ever
