Senador Álvaro Dias

To be a government leader with the stature and success that the honorable Senator Alvaro Dias has achieved, a solid education is at its core.  The Senator’s drive, dedication and values are what ultimately brought him the level of success he has achieved today. 

Senator Alvaro Dias has spent nearly 40 years, and his entire professional career, as a public servant.   As the Governor of the State of Parana, his administration was characterized by bold initiatives and great social and economic achievements, which earned him the title of "Best Governor in Brazil".  By the time he left the office of Governor in 1991, the state's finances had been brought fully into balance, all of his campaign commitments had been fulfilled, and some 33,000 public works had been
executed.

Mr. Dias was elected Senator in 1998 and re-elected in 2006, to serve until 2015.  Since becoming a Senator, Mr. Dias has served as a permanent member of the Education Committee; the Constitution, Justice and Citizenship Committee; and the Foreign Relations and National Defense Committee.  He has served as the national Vice President of the Brazilian Social Democracy Party, and is currently the Opposition leader and Vice President of the Federal Senate.

Senator Dias' leadership has been characterized by a strong defense of ethics, and the rigorous combating of breaches of conduct by public officials.  This posture secured his mention, for two years running, on the list of the 100 Most Outstanding Members of the National Congress - chosen from among the 594 members of the Brazilian Federal Legislature. In 2006, Senator Dias was voted the "Best Senator in Brazil" by a select group of political journalists, and confirmed by an internet poll.

The distinguished Senator has dedicated his entire life to serving the people, and has played an influential role in shaping the State of Parana and the entire Republic of Brazil for nearly 40 years.  Southern States University is honored to have Senator Dias as an honorary alumnus, having presented him with an Honorary Doctorate in Government Administration on June 23, 2007, in recognition of his distinguished career in Brazilian politics, for his selfless commitment and immeasurable successes in serving the people of Brazil.

The honorable Senator Alvaro Dias is a true example of success, and an inspiration for Southern States University students and graduates.