His Holiness the Dalai Lama Honored at Hunter College

Photo by Sonam Zoksang

Before a crowd of 2,000 people, President Raab said, "As president of Hunter College, it is my privilege to welcome His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, and to present him with an honorary Hunter degree. Your Holiness, this is your second visit in two years to Hunter College, and we are honored to have you join us once again. Like people everywhere, we are uplifted by your presence. You are a man of hope, and everywhere you go, you impart that spirit to others."

His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, "I consider this a recognition of my little service to humanity. It gives me encouragement. My body, speech and mind are dedicated to helping others."

Three Hunter College students assisted in the presentation of the honorary degree. David Ma, who was born in Shanghai, is a Psychology major with a minor in Economics and also founded Hunter's Entrepreneur Club, presented His Holiness with a Hunter cap and gown. Rigzin Kundo, whose parents were born in Tibet, presented His Holiness with the ceremonial hood. Born in Nepal, she is a sophomore with a major in Psychology and plans to pursue a career as a nurse. Bianca Malhotra, a sophomore in Hunter's Macaulay Honors College who is studying Economics and International Relations, and whose parents came to America from India, presented His Holiness with his honorary degree.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his non-violent struggle for the liberation of Tibet. He has consistently advocated policies of non-violence, even in the face of extreme aggression. He also became the first Nobel Laureate to be recognized for his concern for global environmental problems.

Click this link to view photos and video of His Holiness the Dalai Lama visit to Hunter College.