Department - News - 2004 Ishaq Shahryar Visit
2004 UCSB Chemistry and Biochemistry Distinguished Alumni Achievement
Award
His Excellency
Ishaq Shahryar 1961 BS, 1969 MA
We had a wonderful opportunity to celebrate another UCSB Chemistry and Biochemistry Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award again this year. H.E. Ishaq Shahryar, former ambassador from Afghanistan to the US, UCSB Chemistry and Biochemistry Alumni, is also an experience businessman having worked extensively in the field of photovoltaics. He is an industry leader among high technology entrepreneurs.
A few of his achievements are:
· Co-inventor of low-cost, terrestrial photovoltaic systems. Very involved in trying to create solar-powered villages in the middle east and in particular Afghanistan.
· Developer of screen printing of solar cells.
· Advisor to former Afghan king, Zahir Shah for five years.
His career history as a solar energy scientist includes:
o 1996-2001, Founder, President and CEO, Solar Utility Company (sales $2.5 million - $4.9 million).
o 1976-1996, Founder and President, Solec International.
Mr. Shahryar gave a seminar on Friday June 4, 2004 at 4:00 pm regarding his company's scientific endeavors and his work as Ambassador from Afghanistan to the US.
He recalled fond memories of undergraduate and graduate studies at Santa
Barbara, and how they shaped his future as an entrepreneur, businessman,
and diplomat.