Lucien Arkas, Chairman of Arkas Holding, was presented with the “White Life Award” by the Bornova Anatolian High School Education Foundation.
The winners of the “White Awards,” organized for the 27th time by the Bornova Anatolian High School Education Foundation, which was founded in 1981 by the graduates of Izmir College/Bornova Anatolian High School, have been announced at a ball held on December 9th at the Swissotel.
Lucien Arkas, Chairman of Arkas Holding, was granted the White Life Award by the foundation. This award is given to businesspeople who serve as exemplary figures in society and contribute significantly to the advancement of education, culture, and quality of life through their diverse contributions.
During his speech at the event, Lucien Arkas remarked, “Bornova Anatolian High School, with its roots tracing back to the 1950s, stands as one of Izmir’s deeply rooted educational institutions. Some schools have a special spirit. The sense of belonging is profound; even after graduation, one continues to carry its values. I feel and see in this room that the Bornova Anatolian High School Education Foundation embodies this spirit and sense of belonging. Graduating from school is not enough. After graduation, there is a responsibility not only for teachers but for us all to pass on these values we’ve gained to future generations. You are fulfilling this duty admirably. You persist in collaborating under the same roof with these sentiments, contributing to society. As a graduate of St. Joseph, I deeply understand these sentiments. Today, education stands as the most crucial element of our future. The more qualified children and youth we nurture, the more solidified our country’s future becomes. As a member of a family coming from Izmir with roots dating back over 300 years, contributing to Izmir in commercial, sports, and artistic fields is my heartfelt duty to this beautiful city that has given me this wonderful life. Making investments in the city where I live and belong has always filled me with pride and happiness. It is, therefore, an honor to receive a prestigious award like the White Awards, a recognition spanning 27 years. I extend my gratitude to everyone who values this and to the management of Bornova Anatolian High School Education Foundation.”
Since its establishment, the Bornova Anatolian High School Education Foundation has supported education through its ongoing efforts and scholarships, helping students in both secondary and higher education, as well as supporting cultural, artistic, and sporting activities. Additionally, since 1997, the foundation has been awarding prizes for contributions to the business world within the framework of the White Awards it organizes.