BY MEGHAN V. MALLOY

Staff Writer

Maine had a brush with a prince, after all.

His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussayni Aga Khan arrived in the United States on Tuesday and chose Augusta as his landing spot.

The Aga Khan, the hereditary and spiritual leader of at least 20 million Muslims worldwide, traveled to Harvard University to receive an honorary doctoral degree Thursday. He was awarded the degree along with 10 other prominent recipients, including U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., who was unable to attend the ceremony; Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling; and others, officials from Harvard University's communications office confirmed.

His Highness, 71, was educated at Harvard University, graduating in 1959 with a degree in Islamic studies, his Web site says. The honorary degree he received Thursday was awarded for his humanitarian work, particularly through the Aga Kahn Development Network, a private development group that primarily focuses on development socially and academically in lesser-developed countries.

What remains a mystery is why the Aga Khan chose to land his Bombardier jet -- identified by its olive green and scarlet banner and registration code -- at the Augusta State Airport.

Maine Instrument Flight president Bill Perry said Tuesday could not confirm how many people were on board or their identities, saying only they were "from overseas."

The prince has lived in Nairobi, Kenya; and Switzerland, but has spent most of his life in France. He has several ties to Maine -- in particular, to Bowdoin College.

Two years ago, former Bowdoin Dean of Student Affairs Craig Bradley resigned from the university and moved his family to France to take a position with the Aga Khan Development Network, developing schools and academies.

Additionally, the Aga Khan serves as chancellor of the Board of Trustees of Aga Khan University, of which former Bowdoin College President Emeritus Robert H. Edwards is also a member.

Bradley, from the Aga Khan's estate in France, said Wednesday he was unaware of the Aga Khan's whereabouts. A woman who answered the phone at Edwards' residence said Edwards was "gone for a few days" and would not be able to comment.

The last time the prince was in the United States was in April, when he met with students, teachers and politicians in Atlanta, according to several news reports.

Meghan V. Malloy -- 623-3811, Ext. 431

mmalloy@centralmaine.com