IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Mr. Antonio Leaño Reyes, President of the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, has been named the new President of the Latin American Regional Council for IAUP (International Association of University Presidents).  This Association has a membership of more than 600 higher education institutions from around the world.

This announcement was made by Dr. Pornchai Mongkhonvanit and Dr. Alvaro Romo, President and Secretary General of the IAUP, respectively, at the meeting held in Krems-Viena, Austria.

The IAUP is an international forum made up of university presidents and chancellors. Their primary purpose is to strengthen the international mission and quality of education at their institutions and to promote global awareness, competence and international understanding through education.  The triennial meetings focus on matters that impact higher education.  Chile will host the next meeting in 2008.

Mr. Leaño made mention that for him and the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara it is a great honor to assume this position of international relevance.  Among the issues he will address he stipulated 2 main points: promoting and increasing membership of new universities in the region and organizing the 2007 Latin American regional meeting.

Additionally, President Leaño presented his Project Agenda for 2006-2008. Foremost in his plans is the creation of an IAUP web page focused on Latin America.  Also included is the emphasis on the organization of sub-regional meetings, the implementation of collaborative networks and discussion groups, and the amelioration of academic and cultural exchanges among universities in Latin America and worldwide.  Chancellor Leaño will also assist both President Mongkhonvanit and the new President Elect with the organization of the 2008 Triennial meeting.

The UAG has been an active member of the IAUP for more than 30 years.   UAG President Dr. Luis Garibay, who was named President Emeritus for IAUP, made many significant leadership contributions during his tenure.