Diaspora Enthusiast Lina Dusevičienė Joins The VU Foundation Team

The Vilnius University (VU) Foundation is expanding its team to enhance its visibility within the diaspora and strengthen philanthropic collaboration with Lithuanians worldwide. A seasoned professional, active community member, and diaspora enthusiast Lina Dusevičienė will take on the role of building and maintaining connections with the Lithuanian diaspora.

"When engaging with Lithuanians around the world, I feel deep gratitude for the diaspora’s unwavering dedication to preserving Lithuanian identity, supporting the fight for independence, and maintaining national traditions. Vilnius University is a guardian of Lithuanian identity, traditions, and language. Over the centuries, it has remained a hub of science and culture, shaping national consciousness and nurturing the Lithuanian language even in the most challenging historical periods. I believe that philanthropic collaboration with the thriving diaspora in the U.S., Canada, and other countries will help build strong bridges to Lithuania," says Lina Dusevičienė, the newest member of the VU Foundation team.

Lina Dusevičienė is an alumna of Vilnius University’s Faculty of Philology and has been actively involved in diaspora engagement projects, activities, and initiatives since 2013. She was a long-time member of the Global Lithuanian Leaders (GLL) professional diaspora network, where she strengthened global professional clubs, fostered connections, and contributed to organizing the Global Lithuanian Awards, which recognize the achievements of Lithuanians worldwide in business, science, and culture.

According to VU Foundation CEO Justinas Noreika, introducing Western philanthropic traditions to Lithuania through its diaspora is a crucial step in fostering sustainable and long-term connections between global Lithuanians and their homeland.

"Lina’s involvement will bring new momentum to our ties with the philanthropically active Lithuanian diaspora. The historic legacy of Canadian Lithuanians Angelė and Sigitas Kazlauskas, the continued support of American Lithuanians Cynthia Pasky and Juozas Sidas Sidzikauskas, the contributions of Australian Lithuanian Sophie Valentina Ambroza and the Valauskas family to the VU Faculty of Medicine, and the efforts of the Marius Jakulis Jason Foundation, led by a New York returnee, are outstanding examples of global Lithuanian philanthropy—ones we hope to see even more of," says VU Foundation CEO J. Noreika.

Additionally, L. Dusevičienė actively promotes the civic engagement of global Lithuanians in national governance, raises awareness of citizenship retention issues, and highlights the strategic importance of diaspora relations for Lithuania’s security and international presence. She is also a professional and experienced tour guide, curating unforgettable travel experiences across the Baltic States for visitors from all corners of the world.