Lawrence kicks off presidential mission to India

First blog post reflects on similarities to last year's visit to Israel

Photo/Charlie Radin

The India Gate, in the heart of New Delhi

President Fred Lawrence arrived in India this week on a mission to explore opportunities for collaboration with leading Indian institutions, bolster alumni connections and raise the university's profile in the world's largest democracy.

In his first blog post of the trip, Lawrence reflected on the many similarities between India and Israel, where he visited last year in his first international mission as president.

"Both are front-runners in the global competition in scientific research and technological innovation. Both are pioneering new thinking on global issues and new solutions for global problems. Both are vibrant and diverse democracies, with all the strengths and challenges that presents," Lawrence wrote. "It is thus not surprising that India and Israel are at the top of the list of countries where Brandeis sees opportunities."

This week and next, Lawrence will participate in public events and meet with alumni, prospective students and a variety of prominent Indians in government and education. He will post to his blog throughout the visit.