Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York, Vladimir Božović, PhD, attended the event “Celebration of Science” at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia

Among those present were representatives of the Philadelphia City Council, representatives of the Franklin Institute, Ms. Ashley Redfearn, Chief Executive Officer of American Paradigm Schools, Mr. Nikola Lončar, President of the Tesla Science Foundation, members of the Serbian community, as well as numerous friends of Serbia and admirers of Nikola Tesla’s life and work.

Following the welcoming remarks by Ms. Ashley Redfearn and Mr. Nikola Lončar, the Consul General participated in the program as an honorary guest and addressed the audience. He emphasized the significance of two major anniversaries being marked this year — 250 years since the founding of the United States of America and 170 years since the birth of Nikola Tesla — noting that this symbolism powerfully reflects the historical ties and friendship between the Serbian and American peoples. In his remarks, he particularly highlighted the deep and lasting contribution of the Serbian people to the development of American society, recalling that generations of scientists, engineers, physicians, artists, and entrepreneurs of Serbian origin have left a significant mark on the scientific and technological progress of the United States. He also underlined the role of the Serbian diaspora as an important bridge of cooperation, as well as the importance of further strengthening academic and scientific exchange between the two countries.

Speaking about Tesla’s legacy, the Consul General emphasized that Tesla’s scientific and visionary work represents a universal value that continues to inspire new generations of researchers and students, and that events such as this contribute to preserving the culture of remembrance and encouraging young people’s interest in science and innovation.

On this occasion, the Consul General reiterated that the Republic of Serbia remains firmly committed to further developing cooperation with the United States of America, particularly in the fields of education, science, technology, and cultural diplomacy. He stressed that the Consulate General in New York remains open to all initiatives that contribute to deepening relations and implementing joint projects, conveying the message that Nikola Tesla’s legacy reminds us that science knows no borders and that through knowledge, innovation, and cooperation we continue to build bridges between our peoples.

The event, dedicated to celebrating science and inspiring young people in the field of scientific education, included a presentation by Aleksandar Rudnik Milanović, PhD, of a conceptual design and project proposal for the future Tesla Science Center in Philadelphia, which made a strong impression on those in attendance and will be further discussed at the level of the City of Philadelphia, with the support of the Consulate General and the Serbian community.

As part of the program, an exhibition of 50 panels on the past, present, and future of Tesla’s legacy was also presented, prepared by the Tesla Science Foundation, with the participation of educators and distinguished scientific speakers.

Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy an appropriate cultural program and a musical performance by the ensemble Mano Divina.