Oskar Halecki , a Political Activist? - with Professor Thaddeus V. Gromada

The Institute of World Politics

Professor Thaddeus V. Gromada discusses "Oskar Halecki , a Political Activist?" This lecture is part of the 16th annual Kościuszko Chair Conference and the 4th Oskar Halecki Symposium. About the Speaker Dr. Thaddeus Vladimir Gromada, a prominent figure born in Passaic, New Jersey, to Polish immigrant parents with a rich cultural heritage, boasts an extensive career in academia and community leadership. He earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in East Central European History from Fordham University under the mentorship of renowned historian Oskar Halecki. Dr. Gromada served as a full Professor of Modern European History at New Jersey City University and was instrumental in establishing the Multi-Ethnic and Immigration Studies program there. He also held various roles in the Polish Institute of Arts & Sciences of America (PIASA), culminating in his tenure as Executive Director and President, actively fostering academic connections between Polish and American institutions. Dr. Gromada played a pivotal role in expanding PIASA's reach by affiliating it with the American Association for the Advancement of Slavic Studies, organizing scholarly conferences, and strengthening ties with other ethnic groups. Additionally, he facilitated collaborations with Polish academic and cultural organizations, resulting in the development of professional archives and library resources. Under his leadership, PIASA successfully paid off its mortgage and established cordial relations with the Polish Embassy and Consulate General. Dr. Gromada's contributions were recognized through various awards and honors, including the Commander's Cross of Merit from Poland, solidifying his legacy as a dedicated scholar and cultural ambassador. About the Symposium This virtual joint symposium is organized by The Institute of World Politics, in Washington, D.C., USA, and The Oskar Halecki Institute in Ottawa, ON, Canada to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passing away of Professor Oskar Halecki. Sponsors The Institute of World Politics, Washington, D.C., United States The Oskar Halecki Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada Co-Sponsors Institute of History of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IH PAN) Institute of Heritage of the Polish National Thought (IDMN) Instytut Historii USKW (Stefan Cardinal Wyszynski University) ***Learn more about IWP graduate programs: https://www.iwp.edu/academic-programs/ ***Make a gift to IWP: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E231090&id=18