Photo gallery: Toomas Asser presented the University of Tartu honorary decorations

When speaking to the recipients of honorary decorations, Rector Toomas Asser emphasised their impact. “In the context of the Year of the Estonian Book, I dare say that you are like living books for the university – inexhaustible sources of knowledge, ideas, and inspiration. You have influenced not only the university but also all the people who encounter you in their work or studies,” Asser said.

The University of Tartu Grand Medal is the highest recognition granted to university members for services of particular value. Based on the senate resolution, the Grand Medal was awarded this year to Jaak Aaviksoo, Professor emeritus and rector from 1998 to 2006; Marlon Gerardo Dumas Menjivar, Professor of Information Systems; Kalle Kirsimäe, Professor of Geology and Mineralogy, and Ivo Leito, Professor of Analytical Chemistry.

The University of Tartu Star of Appreciation was awarded to recognise people who have rendered great services to the university. Recipients of the Star of Appreciation were statesman Siim Kallas, conductor of the Chamber Choir and the Academic Women’s Choir of the University of Tartu Triin Koch, Ambassador of France to Estonia Emmanuel Mignot, computer scientist Härmel Nestra, science journalist Jaan-Juhan Oidermaa, former member of the University of Tartu council Kari Olavi Raivio, Swedish entrepreneur Björn Erik Savén, former Solaride leader Asso Soosalu, and long-time conductor of the Academic Women’s Choir of the University of Tartu Vaike Uibopuu.

The rector also presented the University of Tartu medals, badges of distinction and the decorations “100 Semesters at the University of Tartu”. Musical performance was by opera soloist Rasmus Kull, accompanied on piano by Piia Paemurru, from Vanemuine Theatre.

The list of all recipients of the honorary decorations is available on the university’s website. See the gallery of the ceremony on UTTV and watch the recording on UTTV.