This week, FAU’s Diplomacy Program received a transformational $1 million gift from Tzili Charney, the widow of “unsung American hero” Leon Charney. The program will be named the Leon Charney Diplomacy Program in his honor.
In 1978, the efforts of Mr. Charney, a lawyer and businessman, led directly to the Camp David Accords, which established the peaceful relationship between Israel and Egypt that endures to this day. I had the pleasure of presenting Mr. Charney with an honorary doctorate in December 2015, in recognition of his great diplomatic accomplishment.
Since 1996, FAU’s Diplomacy Program has won 18 national and international awards for academic excellence, at events such as the National Model United Nations competition. With this gift, the Diplomacy Program is able to offer three scholarships in fall and spring and double its offerings, including increased attendance at competitive events. I know our Diplomacy students will continue to strive for excellence and do their very best to honor Mr. Charney’s legacy and make the Charney family proud. Sincere thanks to the Charney family for this wonderful gift, which will benefit generations of Owls to come.