George K. Liu Recognized as 2007 Distinguished Alumnus
George K. Liu (MPIA ’62) was honored as GSPIA’s Distinguished Alumnus for 2007. Liu’s 40-year career in executive and senior management positions with several global and Fortune 10 companies was recognized, as was his service as a Member of Congress for Taiwan and Chair of their Foreign Affairs Committee.
It was Liu’s deep conviction for freedom, however, that led him to voice his opposition to the totalitarian regime in Taiwan in the late 1950s and urged a return to democracy for his homeland. As a result, he was exiled from Taiwan for almost 20 years. During that time, Liu lived in many cities in Asia and the United States, and finally settled in California. He became a United States citizen in 1972.
At graduation, Liu attributed the “fire of intellectual curiosity” at GSPIA for inspiring in him a desire to ask, “why not,” and to think about different solutions. Liu recognized GSPIA as a place that inspires healthy discussion and a meeting of the minds—essential if we are to progress as people, companies, counties, and a community of nations.
“Because of GSPIA, I am a more well-rounded thinker… I am proud to have chosen Pitt,” said Liu, expressing his deep appreciation for having been selected as GSPIA’s Distinguished Alumnus for 2007.
When not working overseas, Liu lives in California with his wife, Elsa. He is also the father of two grown daughters.
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