Together We Create WSB University! | University Day

A celebration shared by the entire academic community, important reflections, music, family attractions, and an opportunity to meet outside the everyday rhythm of work and classes - this is how this year's WSB University Day unfolded.

The annual event brought together members of the University's academic and administrative staff, students, partners, and their families, creating a space for conversations, integration, and celebrating the achievements of our University together.

It was a day during which the idea of community resonated particularly strongly. WSB University is not only a place of learning, work, and the pursuit of ambitious projects, but above all a community of people - their passions, commitment, ideas, and everyday willingness to take action.

The official part of the event began with the joint performance of the University anthem, "Vivat Akademia!". This was followed by an address from the Rector of WSB University, Prof. Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz, who emphasised the importance of the work carried out every day by those who contribute to the University's development through research, teaching, organisational activities, expert engagement, and building relationships with the socio-economic environment.

One of the most important moments of the ceremony was the presentation of the Rector of WSB University Awards. These distinctions were presented to academic, teaching, and administrative staff whose dedication and achievements have made a significant contribution to the University's development.

The awards recognised outstanding scientific achievements, publications with prestigious publishing houses, participation in international research projects, and initiatives enhancing teaching and the quality of education.

Activities promoting science and the dissemination of knowledge also occupied an important place, including the organisation of public lectures, educational initiatives, and events addressed to a broad audience.

The ceremony also highlighted the importance of WSB University's cooperation with business, local government, and public institutions, as well as its expert activities and knowledge transfer at the intersection of academia, the economy, and society.

Distinctions were also presented to individuals whose exceptional commitment, organisational work, and everyday dedication support the functioning and continued development of WSB University.

The Rector of WSB University, Prof. Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz, expressed special words of appreciation to Prof. Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna, Vice-Rector for Science and Education at WSB University, who was recognised for her outstanding scientific achievements, international recognition in global rankings, publications ranked in the top 1% according to the Scopus database, and active participation in prestigious bodies supporting the development of science.

“There are people whose presence within an institution cannot be overestimated because they give it direction. Professor Szczepańska-Woszczyna combines scientific curiosity with practical insight, high standards with the ability to inspire others, and consistency with genuine authority.”
- said the Rector, emphasising Professor Szczepańska-Woszczyna's many years of contribution to strengthening the University's scientific standing and its recognition both in Poland and internationally.

The Rector also expressed her appreciation to Dr Sabina Ratajczak, Vice-Rector for Development and Director of the WSB University Centre for Quality and Innovation, who was recognised for her creativity and for strengthening the University's potential through active participation in international accreditation bodies and organisations dedicated to the quality of higher education.

“Where others see a table, a schedule, or another application, the Vice-Rector sees a goal and pursues it consistently and effectively. Thanks to such an approach, ambitious plans become practical solutions that benefit the entire WSB University community every day.” - the Rector noted.

In her speech, the Rector also addressed Prof. Marcin Lis, Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and External Relations at WSB University, whose activities were recognised for active and invaluable cooperation with the socio-economic environment, expert engagement, and knowledge transfer connecting academia, business, and local government.

“Professor Lis has the ability to find common ground with students, business representatives, public administration, and the academic community alike. It is thanks to such relationships that WSB University remains a genuine partner for its stakeholders, while the knowledge acquired by our students is applied in practice from the very beginning.”- emphasised Prof. Zdzisława Dacko-Pikiewicz.

An important part of the awards recognised organisational achievements, exceptional commitment, and everyday work carried out for the benefit of WSB University. Those honoured also included the University's Vice-Deans and staff members who co-create events, projects, and initiatives important to the entire academic community.

In the "Good Start" category, awards were presented to employees who, from the very beginning of their work at WSB University, have demonstrated remarkable energy, responsibility, and readiness to embrace new challenges.

WSB University Day also provided an opportunity to celebrate the success of students who won first place in the nationwide Commodity Exchange Trading Competition: Barbara Panek, Dawid Łukasik, and Mateusz Pojda. Their achievement demonstrates that WSB University students successfully combine the knowledge gained during their studies with practical application, teamwork, and the courage to take on ambitious challenges.

This year's WSB University Day offered an opportunity to pause for a moment and reflect on how much we create together. Scientific, educational, organisational, and student successes are all built upon the everyday work of many people who, together, shape and strengthen WSB University.