The 2009 AAAS Annual Meeting begins today--a bright, chilly day in downtown Chicago. Among the highlights:

A special Forum for Sustainability Science Programs will look at the challenges confronting universities as the attempt to meet a growing need for sustainability research--curriculum development, linking science to decision-making, and funding. 1:00-6:00 p.m., Hyatt Regency, Ballroom A.

The third annual Canada Reception, focused on "the Canadian way" of pursuing international partnerships and collaboration. 5:00-6:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency, Crystal Ballroom C.
 
The annual AAAS President's Address features AAAS President James J. McCarthy, the Alexander Agassiz Professor of Biological Oceanography at Harvard University. The event is free and open to the public. 6:30 p.m., Fairmont Hotel International Ballroom.

For more information, check the online program planner or look at your program book.