EUCE Inaugural Events

The kick-off events for the new European Union Center of Excellence at Georgia Tech took place on September 18-19, 2008 with over 150 people attending the inaugural reception on Thursday evening and 25 scholars from 7 different universities taking part in the first annual scholarly symposium held on Friday.

A great cross-section of the Atlanta community turned out in force to celebrate the re-launch of the EUCE with wide representation from the Consular Corps, the international business community, local media and academics from Georgia Tech and throughout the University System of Georgia. The keynote address was given by Mr. Anthony Smallwood, Head of Press and Public Diplomacy for the Delegation of the European Commission to the United States. Additional comments were given by Dr. Vicki Birchfield, EUCE Director, Dr. Bill Long, Nunn School Chair, and Mr. Chris Young, Director of International Affairs for the State of Georgia. Senator Nunn could not be in attendance, but Dr. Long read a letter he had composed for the event congratulating the Nunn School and acknowledging the asset the Center will be in helping “…our students, as well as our citizens in the city, state and region gain additional knowledge and a deeper understanding of the European Union and the importance of the transatlantic relationship.” Champagne, ale, and red wine were donated by the French Consulate General, the British Consulate General, and the Italian Trade Commission, respectively.