During the Commencement Ceremony 2025, the AUBG honored two exceptional individuals whose service, vision, and personal commitment have shaped the university’s journey—Dr. Edward Friedman and Spas Dimitrov.
Both were recognized with the Princess Maria Luisa Emeritus Trustees Award, presented by Victoria Entwistle, Deputy Chair of the AUBG Board of Trustees and former AUBG student.
Dr. Edward Friedman
Dr. Edward Friedman was honored remotely during the ceremony. A member of the AUBG Board of Trustees since 2017, Dr. Friedman has left a mark through his leadership, academic contributions, and unwavering focus on the students.
“From the very beginning, he brought vision, integrity, and deep care for our mission and our students,” said Entwistle.
“He generously shared his expertise with our students through guest lectures, and led the Committee on Academics and Student Experience with dedication and passion.”
With a long-standing commitment to education and public service across continents, Dr. Friedman served as a true advocate for AUBG’s values, always reminding the Board to center students in every decision.
A Founding Force: Mr. Spas Dimitrov
Spas Dimitrov, who was born in Blagoevgrad, is a founding supporter of AUBG. A former Member of the Bulgarian Parliament and longtime member of the AUBG University Council, Dimitrov was instrumental in the university’s early days—rallying political and local support to establish AUBG in his hometown.
“As a Member of Parliament in the early 1990s, he worked closely with fellow MPs and the mayor of Blagoevgrad to present the city as the ideal home for AUBG,” said Entwistle. “What stands out most is his enduring commitment to AUBG—one that has lasted more than three decades.”
In his speech, Mr. Dimitrov reflected on his 34-year journey with the university:
“For me, this connection with AUBG is not just a commitment—it is part of my life, of my personal and professional history. Exactly 30 years ago, on the square in front of the city hall, the first graduation ceremony in the history of the university took place. Many things have changed since then — the world, the country, the city. One thing has remained unchanged: the university’s aspiration to be a leader in education and to continue to uphold democratic values and traditions as the basis for a better future.”
The Princess Maria Luisa Emeritus Trustees Award celebrates individuals who have gone above and beyond in supporting AUBG’s mission. Both Dr. Friedman and Mr. Dimitrov embody that spirit—through leadership, advocacy, and a lifelong commitment to a better future through education.
