August 20, 2004

CONTACT: Tracy Schario

(202) 994-3566; tschario@gwu.edu

GW PRESIDENT RECEIVES TWO HONORARY DEGREES IN SOUTH KOREA

Trachtenberg Speaks On Merits Of The American University System

WASHINGTON - The George Washington University President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg received a Doctor of Business Administration, Honoris Causa from Dongseo University, Busan, and a Doctor of Public Administration, Honoris Causa from Sangmyung University, Seoul.  The president also delivered four speeches discussing the strengths of the American university system and private colleges during an August trip to South Korea. 

            At Dongseo and Sangmyung universities, Trachtenberg accepted honorary degrees and accolades for the promotion of international awareness and cultural exchanges among university students and professors.  International students represent approximately 10 percent of GW's student populations, of which Korean students are the largest.

In accepting his honorary degrees, Trachtenberg spoke about the importance of cultivating relationships with universities around the world.  "It is a honor to be recognized in such a manner," he said.  "During my travels it has been wonderful to see how universities throughout South Korea have continued to expand and develop.  It is imperative that we continue to learn from each other for the betterment of higher education institutions throughout the world." 

In addition to speeches at Dongseo and Sangmyung universities, Trachtenberg also delivered addresses at the Jeju National University, Jeju Island, and at the Korean Association of University Foundations International Conference in Seoul. 

In his remarks, Trachtenberg addressed the issues facing private universities in America.   "Our freedom and imagination have enabled private American universities to become some of the best in the world," Trachtenberg said. "What remains is to use our freedom to look at our old habits, to break those that impede our progress." 

Trachtenberg has received several honors from Korean universities in the past.  In 1994, he was awarded a Doctor of Public Administration, Honoris Causa, from Kyonggi University, Seoul.  In 1990, he was awarded a Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, from Hanyang University, Seoul, and the University Medal of Highest Honor from Kyung Hee University, Seoul. 

            Located four blocks from the White House, The George Washington University was created by an Act of Congress in 1821.  Today, GW is the largest institution of higher education in the nation's capital.  The University offers comprehensive programs of undergraduate and graduate liberal arts study as well as degree programs in medicine, law, engineering, education, business and international affairs.  Each year, GW enrolls a diverse population of undergraduate, graduate and professional students from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and more than 140 countries.

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