M. Juozapavičius And Prof. E. A. Janulaitis Have Been Named Patrons Of Vilnius University

Vilnius University (VU) has ceremoniously concluded another academic year. During the traditional “Finis Anni Academici” celebration held at VU’s St. Johns Church, supporters of the VU Foundation were honored with the title of VU Patrons in recognition of their understanding of and support for the university’s mission, as well as their significant financial contributions to the Alma Mater.

The title of Vilnius University Patron was posthumously awarded to active Lithuanian public figure Mantvydas Juozapavičius (1976–2023). His parents, Irena and Algirdas Juozapavičius, donated €1.3 million from their late son's estate to the Vilnius University Foundation. In his memory, a €1 million subfund bearing M. Juozapavičius's name was established. An additional €100,000 was allocated to the VU Life Sciences Center subfund and the subfund named after Prof. Algis Petras Piskarskas, as well as to other initiatives supporting and financing the activities of the VU Foundation. The Patron’s diploma and commemorative gift were accepted by M. Juozapavičius’s brother, Mykolas Juozapavičius.

“Philanthropy is not just about financial support – it is a long-term commitment to Vilnius University as an institution, and to the entire community: researchers, lecturers, and students,” said Mykolas Juozapavičius to those gathered. “It is a belief that VU is a foundation for nurturing thoughtful yet responsible citizens who build a free, creative, and courageous society – the cornerstone of a strong state.”

The title of Vilnius University Patron was also awarded to Professor Eugenijus Arvydas Janulaitis, founder of the Future Biomedicine Foundation. By the professor’s decision, the Foundation allocated over €1 million to the Vilnius University Foundation to support the development of a chrono-epigenomics program at the Biotechnology Institute of VU’s Life Sciences Center, as well as to finance other research initiatives.

“Thirty years ago, our State was restored, but it still needs to be built and developed,” said Prof. E. A. Janulaitis as he accepted the Vilnius University Patron’s diploma and commemorative gift. “Philanthropy is one of those grains of sand that can inspire others to contribute to the nurturing of the State.”

During the event, distinguished members of the academic community were also honored. Awards were presented for significant scientific achievements, and symbolic Memory Diplomas were solemnly granted to members of the VU community who suffered under totalitarian regimes and were expelled from the university.