Educating the Heart and Mind: A Path to Universal Responsibility
The Installation and Inaugural Lecture of His Holiness the Dalai Lama as Presidential Distinguished Professor
Monday, October 22, 2007 | 3:00–6:15 p.m. | Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta
His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama was installed as Presidential Distinguished Professor at Emory University in a vibrant ceremony including music, readings, and academic ceremonial traditions. This is the first and only university appointment accepted by the 1989 Nobel Peace Laureate and leader of the Tibetan exile community.
Following the formal installation, the new Presidential Distinguished Professor delivered his inaugural lecture to Emory students, which was titled “Reality as Interdependence” and was based on Je Tsongkhapa’s rten-’brel bstod-pa, “In Praise of Relativity.”
An Invitation Accepted
The Dalai Lama accepted Emory’s invitation to be the Presidential Distinguished Professor in January 2007, marking a new chapter in the relationship between the two. His active participation in the Emory community will be an invaluable resource as Emory strives to bridge two worlds for one common humanity.
“I deeply value my close association with Emory Uni¬versity and have always appreciated Emory University’s leading role in developing innovative programs that draw on the strengths of Tibetan and western civilization for the mutual enrichment of our two traditions,” said the Dalai Lama in accepting the appointment.
“I firmly believe that education is an indispensable tool for the flourishing of human well-being and the creation of a just and peaceful society, and I am delighted to be able to make a small contribution in this regard through this appointment,” he added.
Emory’s Vision
James W. Wagner, President of Emory University wrote in a letter to the Dalai Lama, ”Since its inception, Emory has been committed to a broad vision for an education that would mold character as well as mind. Your Holiness’s own lifelong work and message so deeply resonate with this vision that I believe it is not accidental that we have formed such a close association. Your Holiness’s acceptance of the Presidential Distinguished Professorship will be a constant source of inspiration and encouragement to our faculty, staff, and students as we strive to realize this vision of educating both heart and mind for the greater good of humanity.”
As Presidential Distinguished Professor, the Dalai Lama will continue to provide private teaching sessions with students and faculty during Emory’s study abroad program in Dharamsala, India, as well as provide opportunities for the University community to attend his annual teachings.
He also will make periodic visits to Emory to participate in programs. Emory will establish a fellowship in the Dalai Lama’s name to fund annual scholarships for Tibetan students attending Emory’s undergraduate and graduate schools.
VIDEO
Part One
Tibetan Monks Chanting
Part Two
Academic Procession
Part Three
Welcome from President Wagner
Part Four
The Emory-Tibet Partnership
Part Five
Greetings from the Emory Community
Part Six
Installation Ceremony
Part Seven
Musical Interlude
Part Eight
Inaugural Address
