VARGAS: DODIK'S REMARKS RESONATE STRONGLY WITH AUDIENCE

CHICAGO, MAY 1 /SRNA/ – The Chairman of the Board of the World Leaders Forum at Judson University, Mark Vargas, said that the address by SNSD leader Milorad Dodik at the 12th World Leaders Forum left a lasting impression on more than 300 present Americans, who were inspired by his message of freedom, democracy and standing up for what is right even under significant pressure.

Vargas congratulated Dodik on becoming the first recipient of the "Advancing Democracy" award, noting that this recognition places him among a distinguished group of global leaders who have addressed the World Leaders Forum over the past 15 years.

He reminded that previous participants included George Bush, Mikhail Gorbachev, Tony Blair, Felipe Calderon and Queen Noor of Jordan.

"We are proud to include you in this legacy", the chairman of the World Leaders Forum Board stressed.

He thanked Dodik for his generous donation to the RISE Program, an initiative that provides scholarships and enables students with intellectual disabilities to attend Judson University.

"Your kindness and generosity toward these students have exceeded our expectations and will have a lasting impact on their lives", Vargas said.

On behalf of the World Leaders Forum Board of Directors, he thanked Dodik for joining them as a guest at the 12th World Leaders Forum.

"The mission of the forum is to bring global leaders to campus to engage in meaningful dialogue, discuss complex global issues and exchange ideas in an open forum", Vargas said, adding that Dodik's participation illustrated that purpose.

Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik was presented with an award for the courage required for leadership and commitment to national sovereignty and democratic principles by Judson University in the US city of Elgin.