American Red Cross in Greater New York Appoints Theresa Bischoff Its New Chief Executive Officer.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 16, 2003

The American Red Cross in Greater New York is pleased to announce the appointment of Theresa A. Bischoff as its Chief Executive Officer. Ms. Bischoff will lead the organization through a new focus on strengthening its core mission of providing relief to victims of disaster and helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. She will also deepen its ties to its many constituencies, particularly the business community, and the many neighborhoods throughout New York.

"We are thrilled that Ms. Bischoff has chosen to join the Red Cross as we embark on a new era for Red Cross and all New Yorkers," said William Gray, President of Ogilvy & Mather and Chairman of the Board of the American Red Cross in Greater New York. "New Yorkers depend on the Red Cross for its health and safety courses and disaster preparedness and response services. We are confident that under her leadership, we will grow the necessary funds to support our mission and further enhance our programs. Terry's proven leadership and management skills plus her deep understanding of New York's healthcare capabilities will help the Red Cross perform its important mission."

"When I was approached about this position, I couldn't think of a better way to contribute to the safety and security of New Yorkers," said Ms. Bischoff. "Following the tragedy of September 11 and the challenges of the blackout of 2003, the opportunity to ensure a strong and effective Red Cross was irresistible." Ms. Bischoff will officially begin her new position on January 1, 2004.

Ms. Bischoff joined NYU Medical Center in 1984 and has served as President since 1998. In addition to her dynamic leadership during a period of dramatic changes in healthcare delivery, she has also played important leadership roles as an advocate for hospitals and medical schools on the local and national level. In 2001 she served as Chair of the Greater New York Hospital Association. In that role she worked to help the city's hospitals receive financial assistance from the federal government as they recovered from September 11. Today she serves as Chair of the Association of American Medical Colleges, the policy setting and advocacy organization for the country's 125 medical schools and 400 major teaching hospitals. Prior to joining NYU Medical Center, she worked in corporate finance at Squibb Corporation and Great Northern Nekoosa. She is also a CPA.

This summer, Robert M. Bender, Jr., retired as CEO of the American Red Cross in Greater New York after 42 years of service to the Red Cross.

Supported by community donations and over 6000 volunteers, the American Red Cross in Greater New York helps people avoid, prepare for and respond to emergencies. It also helps them rebuild their lives after an emergency. In addition to responding to major disasters like the events of September 11, ARCGNY responds to an average of eight emergencies a day such as blackouts, fires, water main breaks and building collapses. The Red Cross also offers a variety of health and safety courses on such subjects as First Aid, and Adult and Child CPR. For information on courses call 800-514-5103. For general information, call 877-REDCROSS or access the web site at www.nyredcross.org.