Atlantic Hope — 3.5-Day Immersive Disaster Response Training

Are you passionate about emergency management, public health, government relations, public policy, or medicine? Do you want to learn more about community preparedness? Do you want to gain skills that will make you stand out in the competitive job market?

Register for Atlantic Hope, an immersive 3.5-day disaster simulation training exercise, taking place from May 28-31, at Cornell University.

This unique opportunity will equip you with invaluable skills in humanitarian aid, applicable to any career path. This experience is open to the public, all are welcome to participate as learners or role players. Cornell faculty and staff are also invited to participate as volunteer staff.

Register by April 30th

What is Atlantic Hope?

Atlantic Hope is a dynamic training simulation that mimics the initial on-the-ground phase of an international humanitarian response to a major natural disaster in the fictional post-conflict nation of "Atlantica." Participants will assume roles within the fictional organization, International Humanitarian Action (IHA), and will be deployed to Atlantica to respond to this crisis. Upon arrival, participants will check in, receive safety information, and undergo initial training before beginning the exercise, where they will be deployed to Atlantica. Throughout the exercise, participants will sleep in a shelter environment similar to what you might encounter during a humanitarian aid mission. 

Accommodations:

• Shelter cots will be provided; however, sleeping bags are encouraged, and small air mattresses are allowed.
• Showers will be available.
• All meals and beverages will be provided.
• Participants will remain in their roles and on-site for the entire exercise.

Schedule:

• Participants are expected to arrive at the main lobby in Atkinson Hall by 4:30 PM on May 28, 2026.
• Breakfast each day starts at 7 AM.
• You and your team will start your missions at 8 AM, and lights out each night is at 11 PM.
• The exercise will continue until 11:30 AM, Sunday morning, May 31, 2026.

Cost:
The estimated cost to participate is currently $120, which covers all meals and beverages for the duration of the exercise. However, if we get enough registrants we may be able to significantly reduce that price. All the experts who are providing training for this exercise are volunteering their time and effort.

Why Participate?

• Hands-On Experience: Engage in realistic, continuous training exercises that simulate real-world scenarios.
• Expert Guidance: Receive training from experts working with local, state, federal, and international organizations specializing in humanitarian aid and disaster response, including FEMA, New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and volunteer aid organizations.
• Career Advancement: Gain a competitive edge in the job market with unique experience and skills that are highly valued across various professions.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and fellow participants who share your interests and career goals.
   

Key Skills You Will Develop

During the training, you will be challenged to navigate various aspects of disaster response, including:

• Search and Rescue: Learn the techniques and strategies to effectively locate and assist individuals in need.
• Delivering Aid: Understand the logistics and cultural sensitivities involved in distributing aid respectfully.
• Cultural Competency: Adapt to new cultural norms and work efficiently within them.
• Negotiation: Hone your negotiation skills by interacting with challenging governmental officials in high-pressure situations.

Ways to Participate:

1. As a participant (sign up by April 30)
2. As volunteer staff (sign up by April 30)
3. As a role player (sign up by April 30)

For additional information or questions, please contact Dr. Danielle Eiseman, dle58@cornell.edu.