RECORDING: rector is handing over the University of Tartu honorary decorations

Today, on 21 November, at 16:00, Rector Toomas Asser presented the university’s honorary decorations at the ceremony in the assembly hall.    

In his speech, Rector Toomas Asser emphasised that the awarding of honorary decorations is a recognition of the laureates’ persistent, continuous and dedicated work over the years. "Dialogue with society keeps the University of Tartu fresh and does not allow it to become stagnant or encapsulated. Thank you all for keeping this circle alive, vibrant and always new. You are the leaders. You are the ones who make an effort, day after day, to prevent the university from stagnating and keep it operating like clockwork." 

This year, 77 people were recognised with the University of Tartu honorary decorations. The University of Tartu Grand Medal, the highest award granted to university members, was presented to Urmas Varblane, Professor of International Business, member of the University of Tartu council and member of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. Professor Varblane is an outstanding economist whose contribution extends beyond the conventional scope of academic work. He has served as a bridge between universities and entrepreneurship, making a direct impact on both public policy-making and corporate strategies.       

In addition to the Grand Medal, the rector also presented the University of Tartu Medals, the Badges of Distinction and the decorations “100 Semesters at the University of Tartu”. People outside the university were recognised with the University of Tartu Star of Appreciation for rendering great services to the university.See all recipients of the honorary decorations. Music was performed by Kadri Voorand, Professor of Liberal Arts at the University of Tartu, and musician Mihkel Mälgand. 

All university members may nominate candidates for the honorary decorations of the University of Tartu. The names of this year’s and earlier recipients of honorary decorations have been entered in the awards and recognition database on the university’s website. Read more about honorary decorations on the university’s website.   

The recording of the ceremony can be viewed on UTTV.