On 16 October 2020, this title was granted with the motivation “For notable contribution in strengthening the relations between the two countries in the educational and cultural area, in wider inclusion of the academic staff and students of the University of Tirana in State Department programmes of high impact in academic and professional education, empowerment of women in society and preserving cultural heritage in Albania”.

The UT Rector, Prof Dr Artan Hoxha, commended Ms. Marie Royce’s contribution in increasing opportunities for the inclusion of Albanian students and professionals in different State Department programmes as an excellent opportunity for their professional development and the exchange of educational experiences between Albania and the US.

Ms. Royce expressed that she felt honoured to be the third American to receive this important title by the University of Tirana and highlighted that educational cooperation with Albania would continue to be a focus of her work.