Four families donate 1 million euros to Vilnius University Fund

The families of prominent Lithuanian laser industry pioneers have collectively decided to bolster the Vilnius University (VU) Foundation's first-ever philanthropic endowment fund with an additional 1 million euros. This significant contribution is set to enhance the fund, which was co-established in 2016 by the families of Dr. Romualdas Danielius, Prof. Valdas Sirutkaitis, Prof. Algis Petras Piskarskas, and Dr. Algirdas Juozapavičius.

Their laser and systems manufacturing company, "Light Conversion," founded a decade ago, was instrumental in establishing the VU Foundation, laying the groundwork for modern academic philanthropy in Lithuania. Over the past ten years, the foundation has received support from over 5,000 individuals, companies, and organizations. Dozens of philanthropic families and more than 50 businesses and organizations currently back its operations.

Dr. R. Danielius, speaking on behalf of the patrons, stated, "Vilnius University is the origin of our company and the Alma Mater for many of our employees. By supporting the university, we aim to contribute to the development of young talent and the creation of a sustainable environment for innovation." Justin Noreika, head of the VU Foundation, explained that the philanthropic contribution will augment the unrestricted capital, with investment returns earmarked for funding talented early-career VU scientists. The foundation annually awards up to 30,000 euros in incentive scholarships, disbursed over two to three years.

VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas highlighted the historical significance of the names associated with this donation, noting their deep roots in Lithuanian physics and the university's history. He emphasized that the families' involvement, through their pioneering laser research and the success of "Light Conversion," represents a significant advancement in academic patronage. Since 2020, the foundation has funded nearly twenty researchers from various fields who have completed doctoral studies at prestigious universities, and this additional funding aims to attract more talented researchers to Lithuania.

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Vilnius University is the origin of our company and the Alma Mater for many of our employees. By supporting the university, we aim to contribute to the development of young talent and the creation of a sustainable environment for innovation.