The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) President, Dr. Ary S. Graça, was honored with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of volleyball worldwide.
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| A Brazilian visionary and FIVB President for over a decade, Dr. Ary S. Graça, receives the KISS Humanitarian Award for his exceptional efforts in using volleyball as a catalyst for positive change. Image Credit: KISS |
Bhubaneswar, India - October 7, 2024:
In a ceremony marked by accolades and admiration, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) President, Dr. Ary S. Graça, was bestowed with the prestigious KISS Humanitarian Award 2020. The award, conferred by the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), recognized Dr. Graça's exceptional contributions to the growth and promotion of volleyball worldwide.
The award ceremony was graced by the presence of Odisha Governor Raghubar Das and Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo. While the award was announced in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented Dr. Graça from receiving it at the time.
In his speech, the Governor lauded Dr. Graça's dedication to promoting volleyball as a force for positive change in society. He emphasized the humanitarian and social values embodied by the KISS Humanitarian Award, encouraging individuals worldwide to strive for excellence in these fields.
Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary founder of KIIT and KISS, and a former president of the Volleyball Federation of India, provided insights into Dr. Graça's illustrious career. He highlighted Dr. Graça's 12-year tenure as FIVB President and his instrumental role in expanding the federation's reach to 222 member nations. Samanta expressed his pride in Dr. Graça receiving the award, emphasizing its recognition of humanitarian and social endeavors globally.
Dr. Graça, in turn, expressed his admiration for Dr. Samanta's efforts to develop volleyball in India. He underscored his belief in volleyball as a tool for fostering peace, harmony, and empowerment worldwide.
The KISS Humanitarian Award, known for its international significance, has previously been conferred upon distinguished leaders, Nobel laureates, and notable figures from various fields. Dr. Graça's recognition further solidifies the award's prestige and its ability to honor individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society.