Empire State University celebrates Class of 2024 in Prague

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – JULY 2, 2024) Empire State University celebrated 104 graduates at a ceremony in Prague, Czech Republic on June 26, 2024.

The students are part of a long-standing partnership program with the University of New York Prague and Empire State University, allowing students to earn both a European and American degree. The graduates hailed from the Czech Republic and 26 other countries.

The program is led by University of New York Prague President Elias Foutsis and General Manager Sotirios Foutsis. Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf attended the ceremony and spoke to Empire State University’s international graduates.

“By earning your degree from UNYP and staying to earn your degree from Empire State University, you own something that very few people do — a dual degree and multinational academic credential that will open doors for you here in Europe, in the United States, and around the world,” Empire State University President Lisa Vollendorf said. “This degree gives you mobility. Your education shows employers that you have global perspective and cross-cultural understanding — skills that are vital in today’s interconnected world.”

Austin Reach, a United States Marine Corps. veteran, chose to study international relations at the University of New York Prague and Public Affairs at Empire State University. The 27-year-old from Southern Illinois said he chose the dual-degree option because it provided a transition back into civilian life.

“I want to thank the Department of Veteran Affairs for giving me the privilege to achieve my educational goals and I want to thank all the professors, faculty, and staff at Empire State University for making my undergraduate program smooth, efficient, and enjoyable,” Reach said. “I hope more veterans realize what this university has to offer.”

Reach now plans to travel to Bishek, Kyrgyzstan to study Central Asian Studies at the American University of Central Asia. Reach said he hopes to eventually achieve a Ph.D. in Eurasian studies.

“My passion is learning of the people, languages, and cultures of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Eurasia,” Reach said.