ATLANTA, April 25, 2000. J. Mack Robinson, chairman of Atlantic American Corporation, has established a $1 million scholarship fund in honor of his wife, Nita, to further international study opportunities for students in the college named for him.
"Globalization is at the forefront of the changes affecting the business environment. We recognize the importance of understanding and competing in a global market. Mack and Nita Robinson are providing our best students with the opportunity to travel and experience the world's diverse business practices and cultures," said Dr. Sidney E. Harris, dean of the Robinson College.
On announcing the gift, Robinson stated, "We want this gift to nurture future global business leaders and have a direct and positive impact on the lives of students in the College."
Robinson contributed $10 million to the college in September 1998 - the largest cash gift to Georgia State University in the university's 87-year history - in support of scholarships, professorships and initiatives of the College's outstanding research centers.
As many as 25 top undergraduate and graduate level students will be selected to receive an award for study abroad or an international internship. "Mr. Robinson's generous gift will enable our students on an annual basis to explore business opportunities abroad as well as provide hands-on knowledge of global business concepts and practices learned in the classroom," according to Dr. Karen D. Loch, who heads the College's Institute for International Business.
The "Nita Robinson Scholars" will be selected based on demonstrated interest in international business through career aspirations, academic achievement, community involvement and work experience. Special consideration will be given to students involved in the College's Institute for International Business, or who plan to undertake a study abroad program or international internship during the subsequent academic year. A selection committee will announce the 2000-2001 recipients this spring.
"With Atlanta as the unchallenged hub of global businesses in the Southeast, we are actively seeking opportunities to strengthen our programs in the international arena," adds Dean Harris.
"This city has experienced tremendous success in recruiting global companies to locate their U.S. and international headquarters here. One of our most popular new programs is the Master of International Business. The Nita Robinson Scholarship will further strengthen this program and provide more of our students with opportunities to increase their knowledge, experience and understanding of the new global economy."
The J. Mack Robinson College of Business is one of the most heralded business schools in the Southeast and nation. The College's part-time MBA program has been listed in the top ten by U.S.News & World Report for five years. In addition, Business Week listed the College's Executive MBA program as one of the top 20 programs in the country; and Forbes has named the College as one of the best business schools for return on investment. With approximately 8,200 students, the College is one of the nation's largest accredited business programs.
For more information, contact:
Steven W. Strickland, Director of Development and External Affairs, 404/413-7056
To apply for the scholarship, contact Joan T. A. Gabel in the Institute of International Business or visit the IIB website.
