Introducing Dr Vailionis’s academic career at the ceremonial Senate meeting, KTU FMNS Dean Associate Professor Dr Kęstutis Lukšys highlighted his role in strengthening the University’s international academic partnerships.
“Arturas is our partner and friend, and we have been working together for many years. His willingness to share his experience, openness to new ideas and collaborative work with scientists from different countries help our University grow and strengthen its position in the international scientific community. We greatly value this partnership and the fact that Arturas remains an active member of our community,” said Lukšys.
The Dean also outlined Dr Vailionis’s international academic career, which has taken him from Vilnius and Stockholm to Illinois and Stanford, highlighting his continued ties with Lithuania’s academic community.
Professor Habilitated Doctor Sigitas Tamulevičius, Director of KTU’s Institute of Materials Science, emphasised Dr Vailionis’s contribution to the development of early-career researchers and his ability to engage students with the latest scientific research.
“We thank you for your initiative, the time you have devoted to our young researchers and your willingness to share your knowledge. Your contributions to the University are extremely valuable to us. The students’ interest and active participation in your lectures show how much they value the opportunity to learn about and discuss the latest research directly with a scientist. You are always welcome at our Institute and Faculty,” said Tamulevičius.
There Are No Small Contributions in Science
Upon receiving the KTU Honorary Doctor insignia, Dr Vailionis thanked the University community and emphasised that the distinction was not only a personal honour but also the result of many years of collaboration.
“I sincerely thank you for awarding me the title of KTU Honorary Doctor. I accept this distinction with deep gratitude, recognising that it is not solely my achievement. In science, there are no small contributions that we make alone. Behind every piece of work, project, lecture or idea, there are people. I would therefore like to thank everyone who has helped build and maintain a strong relationship with KTU over the years,” said the scientist.
In his speech, Dr Vailionis highlighted the inseparable relationship between research and education, the importance of the university community and the need to pass knowledge on to the next generation.
“A university is a special place where research and teaching come together. When you conduct research, you inevitably become involved in education, continually interacting with students and fellow scientists and sharing knowledge. A university is not just its buildings, history, laboratories or complex experiments. Above all, it is about people – curious people who seek answers and drive progress. In science, it is essential to pass on your knowledge to others,” he said.
The scientist also shared a personal story that reflects his special connection with KTU: his father studied at the University. Returning to this academic community therefore holds symbolic significance for him.
“I am very proud that, over the years, I have maintained a living connection with KTU through lectures, discussions and joint projects, rather than merely a formal one. My father studied at KTU, so it feels good to return here. This connection means a great deal to me – it represents a meaningful continuation. I believe that being awarded the title of KTU Honorary Doctor is not an ending, but the beginning of a promising new chapter,” said Dr Vailionis.
Congratulating the new KTU Honorary Doctor, KTU Rector Professor Dr Eugenijus Valatka thanked him for his contribution to the University and for maintaining his connection with Lithuania.
“Thank you for your contribution to the University and to Lithuania. Your scientific work has always been an inspiring example of world-class research for our academic community. Today, we have gathered in this historic Great Hall, which has witnessed the aspirations and dreams of generations of intellectuals. Thank you for your respect for our country and for maintaining your connection with Lithuania. Sometimes it is only when we travel far away that we fully realise how important our homeland and the ties that connect us to it are in our lives. We hope that Kaunas and KTU will always be places you are happy to return to,” said Valatka.
An Honorary Title Recognising Exceptional Contributions
KTU awards the title of Honorary Doctor to distinguished Lithuanian and international scientists and public figures in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the University, science, culture, technology and other fields important to the advancement of society in Lithuania and worldwide.
Candidates are considered by the KTU Senate, which evaluates the findings of a specially appointed committee examining each candidate’s activities, achievements and contributions. The decision to award the title is made by secret ballot and requires the approval of a majority of Senate members. Honorary Doctors are entitled to participate in Senate meetings and are invited to KTU’s ceremonial events.
The previous KTU Honorary Doctor title was awarded in 2023 to Dr Henry William Chesbrough, Professor of Business Administration at the University of California, Berkeley.
