University of Prishtina honors Joseph and Shirley DioGuardi

The University of Prishtina has awarded the title of ‘Doctor Honoris Causa’ to former American Congressman Joseph J. DioGuardi and his wife, Shirley Cloyes DioGuardi. The honor recognizes their long-standing commitment to supporting Kosovo and the rights of the Albanian people.

During the solemn ceremony, University Rector Arben Hajrullahu praised the couple for their role in internationalizing the Kosovo issue and sensitizing American institutions to the situation of Albanians in the former Yugoslavia. Hajrullahu noted that the DioGuardis provided a voice for Kosovo during periods of intense repression and political uncertainty in the 1980s and 1990s.

The ceremony also highlighted the historical impact of the Albanian-American Civic League, led by the DioGuardis, which worked to inform American public opinion and policy regarding developments in Kosovo. The Rector emphasized the deep friendship between the United States and Kosovo, stating that the couple would always be welcome at the university.