UpDate - Vol. 16, No. 14
December 12, 1996
Grads of UD program influential in Bulgaria

     The UD Advanced Economics Program has had a significant
impact on Bulgaria. The three major institutions of learning and
most of the others there now have at least one faculty member who
is a graduate of the certificate program, teaching Western
economics to students. Other UD program graduates are influential
in the private sector and government.
     With the ending of the U.S. Agency for International
Development (USAID) funding that supported the program, the
October graduation of the third-and last- class of graduate
students in the Certificate in Advanced Economics Program in
Bulgaria was both a happy and sad occasion for David Black,
economics. Since its inception in 1991, the only one of its kind
in Bulgaria, Black has served as director of the UD/USAID
program.
     "Although I and others who have taught in Bulgaria are sad
to see the program end, it has been rewarding to know we have
made an important contribution to teaching and understanding
Western economics in Bulgaria," Black said.
     The ceremony, in which the United States ambassador to
Bulgaria participated, also marked the graduation of the second
class in the Certificate of Advanced Management program.
Approximately, 50 students have graduted from the UD managment
program, directed by Michael Pohlen, business administration.
     Each of the three advanced economics classes ranged in size
from 12 to 15 students, who were economics faculty, recent
graduates or persons working in the private sector or government.
Students had to complete 10 courses, almost the equivalent of a
master's degree in economics at the University, to receive a
certificate.
     Although funding for the Advanced Economics and Advanced
Management programs has run out, there is still some funding for
other programs through International Programs and Special
Sessions. The economics department also still has links with
Bulgaria, as graduates of the economics certificate program
steadily continue to come to Delaware for a semester to complete
master's degree coursework, Black said. A master's degree from
Delaware is a prized and important credential, opening up doors
and giving degree holders many options in their careers.
     The Bulgarian students who come on campus are
outstanding-bright, hardworking and motivated-and living in the
United States and experiencing American-style education broadens
their horizons, Black said.
     Students then return to Bulgaria for their comprehensive
examinations and to complete their research papers.
                                              -Sue Swyers Moncure