Diploma Ceremony Marks Milestone for LSMU Students

On 30 January, loud applause rang out in the Great Hall of the Veterinary Academy of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) as eighty-three graduates were awarded their diplomas.

A large group of relatives and friends came to celebrate and congratulate the new graduates of the bachelor’s and master’s programmes of the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Sciences, Medicine, and Nursing.

The festive celebration traditionally began with the national anthem. The Chair of the Senate, Prof. Dr Jūratė Macijauskienė, welcomed the attendees.

“After countless emotional, joyful, and perhaps sometimes less joyful moments, the years of study have passed. This day gives meaning to your entire journey,” said Prof. Dr J. Macijauskienė.

During the solemn ceremony, the Chancellor of the Medical Academy, Prof. Habil. Dr Daiva Rastenytė, congratulated the graduates on their successful academic journey and reminded them that they are always welcome to return to their Alma Mater.

“Today, health professionals who have completed their studies will have the power to influence and determine the health of other people. This is truly a huge responsibility. Everything that the University’s professors have given you, everything you have gained during your practical training, volunteering, and interacting with each other, will stay with you for the rest of your lives. I congratulate you on your decision to embark on this difficult path,” said the Chancellor, addressing not only the graduates, but also their loved ones and lecturers.

Prof. Dr Mindaugas Malakauskas, Chancellor of the Veterinary Academy, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, emphasised that the graduates will become part of history.

“The diplomas awarded testify to the efforts made, the desire to acquire knowledge and skills, and remind us that the step taken a few years ago was well thought out and decisive. Every graduate is very important. Your names will be recorded in the history of our University,” said the Chancellor, expressing the gratitude to graduates for promoting the name of LSMU.

The President of the LSMU Alumni Association, Prof. Habil. Dr Ramunė Kalėdienė, encouraged graduates to stay in touch with friends and professors they met during their studies and invited them to contribute to the building of the social capital by joining the association. Meanwhile, Rugilė Kriaučiūnaitė, President of the LSMU Student Union, wished everyone success and encouraged them to continue their studies with confidence.

For three graduates of the Faculty of Animal Sciences, the graduation ceremony was even more special. Ernesta Mitkutė was awarded a Magna Cum Laude diploma for her high academic and scientific achievements, while Deimantė Sereičikaitė and Rūta Strumskytė received Cum Laude diplomas.

The culmination of the festive celebration was filled with loud applause, congratulations from loved ones and the melodious songs by performer Gabija Lokytė. Having completed their studies, the graduates are ready to share their knowledge with society, and the skills they have acquired will form the basis for responsible decisions.