President Maglione receives Doctorate Degree in Gwangju

The FINA President Dr Julio C. Maglione received today an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration by the Honam University, for his “decisive role in the promotion of international relations through sport”. The ceremony was held with the presence of the Mayor of Gwangju and OC Chairman of the 18^th FINA World Championships, Mr Lee Yong-sup, guests from the FINA family and high dignitaries of the Honam University, one of the most prestigious academies in the Republic of Korea. 

“As FINA President, I humbly take this recognition on behalf of the entire FINA Family. I understand this is also a proof of recognition for the outstanding work and commitment of our 209 National Federations in the five continents. They are the ones building-up the success of FINA and working for a healthier and happier lifestyle around the world”, considered Dr Maglione.

“As this University is forming the most qualified and talented students for their future working environment, Aquatics is also trying to deliver great competitions and outstanding Stars, but, most importantly, to improve citizenship in a very challenging world”, continued the FINA President. “On behalf of every single person working to improve Aquatics on a global scale, I express you my most sincere gratitude for awarding me this so prestigious Degree”, concluded Dr Maglione.

Founded in 1978 and considered in 2018 as the best in the Honam Region, this University has relations with more than 130 of the most prestigious academies in the globe and accepts more than 2000 new students each year (including many foreign ones). A leading institution in the Republic of Korea, the Honam University is a very respected academy in sport studies.  

The President of the institution, Mr Park Sang Cheol praised the intense work of the awardee: “Dr Maglione has devoted himself to health welfare promotion in the world and committed to development of international sport events. He eventually made an enormous contribution to the world peace and prosperity of humanity through sports movement across the world”.

A valuable acknowledgement of the FINA President’s action also came from the Mayor of Gwangju: “Dr Maglione had a pivotal role in awarding the organisation of the FINA World Championships to this city, back in 2013. As you can see, we are capable of delivering a great event and meet all FINA expectations for its showcase”, confessed Mr Lee. “Gwangju is very honoured to have the entire Aquatics family among us. Thank you FINA, thank you Dr Maglione!”

Elected FINA President in 2009, Dr Maglione is also an Honorary IOC Member, President of the Uruguayan Committee and Chair of the ANOC International Relations Commission.