Swedbank and Prof. Algis Petras Piskarskas 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, donors 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.

VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas and Swedbank Lithuania CEO Inga Skisaker (Photo by Ugnius Bagdonavičius)

The title of Patron was awarded to the company Swedbank for an unprecedented philanthropic contribution in the country, a 10 million euro donation to the Foundation.

In 2025, the Swedbank Sub-Fund for the Promotion of Sustainable, Long-Term Country Advancement was established within the VU Foundation. Its goal, in cooperation with VU, is to create a sustainable and long-term impact on Lithuania's social, economic, and cultural development. The activities and initiatives supported by the Swedbank sub-fund will be financed from the earned investment returns of the endowment.

Prof. Algis Petras Piskarskas (1942-2022) (Photo by E. Blažys / LRT)

The title of Patron was awarded posthumously to Professor Algis Petras Piskarskas (1942-2022) for the Piskarskas family's significant financial support of over half a million euros, as well as his mentorship and leadership in establishing the Foundation.

Back in 2023, the laser and laser systems manufacturing company "Light Conversion," together with the Piskarskas family, established the Prof. A. P. Piskarskas Endowment Sub-Fund worth 200,000 euros, which has now reached a value of 800,000 euros. From the sub-fund's investment returns and targeted support, the Prof. A. P. Piskarskas prizes and scholarships are awarded to laser science talents at the VU Faculty of Physics.

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.