University of Argentina Recognized Leonel Fernández with a Doctor Honoris Causa Degree for his Political and Academic Trajectory

The President of the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (GFDD) and former President of the Dominican Republic, Dr. Leonel Fernández, received an honorary doctorate by the National University General San Martín (UNSAM) of Buenos Aires, capital of Argentina.

The distinction was presented to the former Dominican President for his contributions to the communications sector, the rights of the press, and international relations.  It is the
maximum award issued by the UNSAM.

After expressing his gratitude for the distinction, Fernández highlighted the great challenges faced by universities in the future and the commitment that must be undertaken by the higher education institutions with the overall development of nations.

“We need universities that will generate professionals capable of critical thought; that will have the capacity to reflect upon society. Philosophers who will be
able to formulate proposals on how to continue with the ongoing social transformation projects that our countries need,” said the former President, after pointing out that the UNSAM is an example of what a 21st century university should be because it covers all the key areas needed by a developing nation.

In his keynote remarks, UNSAM Dean Carlos Greco highlighted the political and academic trajectory of Fernández and revealed that the award was bestowed upon
him so that his example may serve as encouragement to Latin American students.

Dean Greco also pointed out that there are few individuals in the world who have distinguished themselves, both as a politician and as an academic, as is the case of the former head of the Dominican Republic.  “Education is the principal resource that nations can count on for their development,” stated Greco.

The presentation and recognition of Leonel
Fernández’ trajectory was read by Marcelo Cavarozzi, an expert in Latin American Comparative Politics and in the relationship between capitalism and democracy. In his presentation, Cavarozzi stated: “We hope that just as Pedro Henríquez Ureña lived amongst us in Argentina, Leonel Fernández will also live amongst us and that his passage through the UNSAM and Argentina will not be a fleeting moment but rather an episode that will continue onward in order to share our
values.”

The award ceremony was held at the Tornavía Theater, at the Miguelete Campus. The university’s key authorities, the Dominican Ambassador in the country, César Pina Toribio, Dominican entrepreneur Guillermo Sención as well as students, academics, intellectuals, diplomats and government authorities, as well as representatives from the Dominican community in Buenos Aires, participated in the event.

Before the ceremony former
President Fernández met with intellectuals and academics, in an event hosted by Marcelo Cavarozzi.  Former Argentinian Foreign Minister and current President of the Mercosur Parliament, Jorge Taiana, also attended the event.

The National University General San Martín​ is a public institution headquartered in the city of San Martín, situated in the northern section of Greater Buenos Aires.