September 1 this year was special for Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) – the festive spirit greeted not only first-year students and the entire academic community in the capital, but also in Kaunas and Marijampolė. This time, the beginning of the new academic year coincided with a meaningful occasion – MRU embarked on its 35th year of activity.

Message from the Rector: Courage, Freedom, and Wings for Dreams

In Vilnius, the community that had gathered in large numbers was welcomed not only by the bustle of students but also by inspiring words of greeting, reminding everyone of the University’s long-standing history. Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, while thanking the University’s founders, emphasized the strength of the community and its bold vision for the future:

“From the bottom of my heart, I thank the founders and creators of the University, the members of the University Council and Senate, the rectors, our professors, lecturers, and researchers, administrative staff, and of course, our students – you not only founded and continue to nurture the University halls, but you also live the University every day through fellowship, embracing its values and community agreements, cherishing that enduring yet fragile spirit of academic freedom in today’s societies.”

Addressing first-year students, the Rector encouraged them to pursue their dreams boldly and to use all the opportunities that the University offers:

“I believe you made the right choice by deciding to study at Mykolas Romeris University. Today, we open for you not only the doors of lecture halls – we open the opportunity to grow wings for an inspiring flight toward your dreams. We sincerely look forward to you!”

Recognition of MRU from State Leaders

An exceptional greeting on the occasion of the 35th anniversary was extended to MRU by the President of the Republic of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda. His message was delivered during the celebration by his adviser Saulius Olencevičius. The President praised the University’s achievements and contribution to the country’s development:

“Today MRU is not just a university – it is the intellectual backbone on which rests the vision of our society’s maturity. You have proven that higher education can be not only theoretical but also practically applicable, directly contributing to the country’s economic strength, the consolidation of democracy, and the development of civil society,” – stated the President’s greeting.

The Speaker of the Seimas, MRU alumnus Saulius Skvernelis, recalled the University’s founding history, stressing that its establishment was a bold and extraordinary step, becoming a window to the West.

“I want to wish students to remember the foundations and philosophy you acquire here at this University. Be faithful to your profession, carry the University’s flag high. Remember its origins – this was not only the first higher education institution founded in independent Lithuania, but it is also home to colleagues who defended our freedom and independence. I wish that this honorable name spreads across the whole world,” – said the Speaker.

Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič emphasized in his greeting that the University is not just buildings, but also a foundation of education, knowledge, and values.

“All of you here are united by a common goal – to seek knowledge, to shape your future, and to create value for society. The path you have chosen reflects your character, courage, perseverance, and responsibility. Each of you can bring a unique contribution to our community and the welfare of the country. We are united by respect for Lithuania’s statehood traditions, patriotism, commitment to the principles of the rule of law, democracy, and human rights,” – said V. Kondratovič.

The Mayor of Vilnius, MRU alumnus Valdas Benkunskas, was delighted to return to his Alma Mater. He recalled that his study years coincided with the University’s transformation – from a Law University into a center for social and human sciences.

“The connection and relationship I have always carried with respect after graduating allows me to proudly see the path taken. While 35 years may not seem much in the history of universities, in the case of Mykolas Romeris University, it shows that the University is alive, dynamic, modern, and open, giving a strong impulse here in Vilnius, the academic city,” – rejoiced the Mayor.

MRUSA President Gabija Staponaitė highlighted the abundance of opportunities offered by the University and encouraged students to take advantage of them:

“I wish you not only to study but also to use all the opportunities the University provides – there are so many activities here that everyone can find something meaningful.”

Scientific Achievements and Recognition of Talented Students

During the celebration, diplomas were awarded to 17 new PhDs, and Senate Chairman Prof. Dr. Romas Prakapas conferred academic titles on six MRU professors: Prof. Dr. Andrius Stasiukynas, Prof. Dr. Aistė Diržytė, Prof. Dr. Agnė Tvaronavičienė, Prof. Dr. Sigita Rackevičienė, Prof. Dr. Liudmila Mockienė, and Prof. Dr. Giedrė Valūnaitė Oleškevičienė.

Traditionally, students were also honored – Prof. h.c. Dr. Karl A. Lamers awarded Peace Prizes to the authors of the three best essays on NATO, and “Motieka & Audzevičius” awarded a scholarship to the best first-year law student.

Kaunas: An Academic Celebration in the Spirit of Public Service

The festive atmosphere of September 1 also resonated in Kaunas at the Public Security Academy. After the formal part, students and lecturers shared cake and joyful moments with guests. Dean Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mantas Bileišis emphasized the mission of public service and welcomed new students:

“You are joining a community that over the years has contributed to the development of many leaders and specialists of Lithuania’s statutory institutions. I believe that by following this path, you will also fulfill your personal ambitions and become creators and guardians of Lithuania’s statehood and welfare.”

The Kaunas community was also greeted by the Chief Prosecutor of Kaunas Regional Prosecutor’s Office, Rimas Bradūnas, and the Deputy Commissioner General of the Lithuanian Police, Renaldas Žekonis.

Marijampolė: The First University Cohort – The Beginning of a New Story

In Marijampolė, at the Sudovian Academy, the September 1 celebration radiated the spirit of new beginnings: this year the Academy started the new academic year as a full-fledged member of the MRU family – with new plans, dreams, and inspiration. Dean Dr. Raimonda Bogužaitė noted that this academic year is special – it marks the beginning of the first cohort of university studies, whose graduates will strengthen the entire region:

“Students are embarking on a path that will open many new opportunities but will also demand effort and dedication. We hope that here they will acquire knowledge, develop diverse competencies, become members of the Academy and Marijampolė community, and contribute to fostering the academic spirit, strengthening our region and Lithuania.”

At Sūduva Academy, greetings were also extended by Member of Parliament Karolis Podolskis, Marijampolė Deputy Mayor Ričardas Bagdanavičius, Chief of Marijampolė County Police Headquarters Harimantas Poškevičius, and Director of Marijampolė Special Care Home Viduta Bačkerienė.

Three Cities – One Academic Family

The festive day across three cities demonstrated that the MRU community is united by fellowship and solidarity, which will accompany everyone throughout the coming year. The University greets students, lecturers, and partners, wishing them creative ideas, determination, and success in the new academic year.

You can read the full speech by Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė here.

Peace Prizes were awarded to:
1st place – Hayrünnisa Çelik, Law and Global Security student
2nd place – Kristupas Gaidamavičius, Psychology student
3rd place – Danas Stasiūnas, Communication and Digital Marketing student

The “Motieka & Audzevičius” scholarship was awarded to first-year Law student Juozapas Šopaga.