The theme of the ceremony, Here You Are Visible, became a universal symbol for the entire celebration. The name of each graduate proudly displayed on the big screen, theatrical performances, and consideration demonstrated by lecturers all emphasized the main message: Klaipėda University sees the person, not just their grades.
“We live in a time, when technology is rewriting entire professions, when climate challenges are forcing us to rethink our way of life, when geopolitical issues affect us all. A diploma is not proof of knowledge, but a sign of the ability to seek, adapt, and act responsibly,” said Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas, KU Rector, at the ceremony. “You are leaving not because you already know everything, but because you know how to seek. This is more important than any answer.”
The graduates were also congratulated by Arnoldas Šileika, Chairman of KU Council, and Olivija Vaidak, President of KU Student Union.
“The most important thing is remember that grades or awards are not everything. What you were at the beginning and what you have become today – that is the real achievement. You felt seen at Klaipeda University, and during this wonderful celebration, we see you more clearly than ever. The future belongs to you – and it starts now,” said O. Vaidak offering words of inspiration.
500 honored, recognized, and awarded
Doctoral degrees were awarded to three graduates: Martynas Simutis (transport engineering), Greta Kalvaitienė (ecology and environmental science), and Vaida Žegunienė (educational science). A total of 11 PhD candidates defended their doctoral dissertations this academic year. 20 KU graduates received honors diplomas.
Students, who received nominal scholarships, bonuses, and awards, were also honored at the ceremony. These were established by: Prof. Dr. Rimantas Balsys, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at KU, the Council of KU Institute of Baltic Region History and Archaeology, Vydūnas Youth Foundation (USA), Grigeo, AB (9 scholarships), Klaipėda Association of Industrialists, the Rotary Club, and Martynas Liudvikas Rėza Prize was also awarded.
Special attention was given to the volunteer award presented to international student George Ennor for his inspiring work at the Caritas organization of the Blessed Virgin Marry, Queen of Peace Church in Klaipėda. His example embodied the theme of the celebration – to see and appreciate people through their deeds.
The honorable title of patron was awarded to Arnoldas Šileika, CEO of Western Shipyard, for his ongoing support of the University, the development of student internships, and the strengthening of engineering studies.
Five lecturers received awards in the first ever KU Lecturer of the Year 2025 competition, a joint project of KU Future Support Fund and KU Student Union designed to recognize inspiring members of the academic community.
A total of around 700 students graduated from Klaipeda University this year, with some of them receiving their diplomas in February.
