Kokkalis Foundation Chairman Mr. Socrates Kokkalis visited Harvard University, marking the commencement of the fourth phase of the Kokkalis Program on Southeastern and East Central Europe at the Kennedy School of Government that will extend the program’s activities through 2013.
During his visit Mr. Kokkalis and his family were welcomed by Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust. Mr. Kokkalis had the opportunity to talk to President Faust about the program’s achievement and learn from the President about the University’s new areas of focus.
“The Kokkalis Program has opened doors for the many Southeast European students to come to Harvard for the purpose of learning to become catalysts for peace and stability in their home region,” said Harvard President Drew Faust. “But Socrates Kokkalis’ vision and generous support is also redefining how all students at the Harvard Kennedy School view their futures and their responsibility to society.”
Kennedy School Dean David Ellwood commented on the renewal of the agreement with Mr. Kokkalis, "thanks to the vision and generosity of Socrates Kokkalis, the Kokkalis Program has become among the Kennedy School's most effective and important programs, educating the superb students of South East Europe and sharing the ideas and insights of leaders for the region with Harvard and the entire community."
Harvard University Vice-Provost for International Affairs, Prof. Jorge Dominguez, stated that "the Kokkalis Program has come up in university-wide studies as a model regional program, distinguished for the quality of service to its fellows, its adherence to Harvard University academic values, and the breadth of activities it brings to the University."
Upon renewing his support to Harvard, Mr. Kokkalis thanked President Faust, Dean Ellwood and Vice-Provost Dominguez for the university’s commitment to advancing a peaceful and prosperous Southeast Europe.