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Opening of the academic year and inauguration of the UCM rector

On September 19, 2022, a ceremonial academic event was held on the occasion of the inauguration of the new rector - prof. Mgr. Katarína Slobodová Nováková, PhD., who will lead the university during a four-year term in 2022-2026.

The festive event was connected with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava and also with the opening of the academic year 2022/23.

The invitation was accepted by many important representatives from the academic field as well as by members of social, political and cultural life in Slovakia.

Former rectors of the UCM, members of the UCM Board of Directors, the UCM Scientific Council, academic senates, other committees of the university, the deans of the faculties together with their colleagues - academic functionaries of the faculties, also sat in the audience.

The rector of the university was inaugurated by the chairman of AS UCM doc. PhDr. Ján Višňovský, PhD.

In the inaugural speech, the newly appointed rector addressed the issues of academic freedom, the Covid pandemic, war in Ukraine, current events and finances.

At the end of her speech, the rector expressed her personal message: "Standing up for the university, supporting it.  Constantly looking for new ways, new forces, new visions, without being afraid to speak, always listening to the opinion of others, always ensuring equality of access and opportunities for everyone, spreading the ideas of humanism, democracy, tolerance and freedom in any form and under all circumstances. That's us, that's what makes us a university!!”

During the academic ceremony, five vice-rectors were inaugurated - doc. Mgr. Ildikó Matušíková, PhD. to the position of vice-rector for science and research, doc. PhDr. Andrea Čajková, PhD. to the position of vice-rector for international relations, prof. PhDr. Ladislav Lenovský, PhD. to the position of vice-rector for quality, doc. JUDr. Bystrik Šramel, PhD. as vice-rector for education, Mgr. Andrej Brník, PhD. as vice-rector for development and public relations.

The next part of the program was devoted to the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the UCM establishment. The important milestones in the history and development of the university were presented in a short video compilation.

At the academic ceremony, the new rector also praised the work and activity of colleagues and students.

She presented them with the Rector's Award for exceptional results in scientific and research activities, excellent results in studies, or exceptional volunteer activity.
Selected representatives of university's faculties were also honored with the most important award, the Plaque of Ján Sambucus.
Subsequently, graduates and cooperating institutions were also awarded for their active cooperation and spreading the good name of the university. The rector together with the vice-rectors presented them with a specially made commemorative medal for the 25th anniversary of the founding of UCM.

The university did not forget the former rectors of the university either, and awarded them for their contribution to the building and development of the UCM.

The festive framework of the event was enhanced by verses from Proglas, the first Old Slavic poem performed by the distinguished artist prof. Mgr. art. Božidara Turzonovová, PhD.

The program was also enriched by traditional Trnava region songs and dances performed by the folklore university ensemble Trnafčan.

Submitted by: Matej Lackovič
Responsible person: Mgr. Simona Štefíčková
Source: Department of External Relations UCM
Inserted: 26.9.2022