On 3 February, the team of the Rector of Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU), Dr Gitana Neverienė, welcomed two new Vice-Rectors: Dr Helga Marija Kauzonė as Vice-Rector for Research and Dr Lidija Kraujalienė as Vice-Rector for Studies.

“I am delighted that highly regarded professionals from the Lithuanian higher education sector have joined our university. Their expertise will contribute to KSU’s progress in research and academic excellence. I firmly believe that by offering forward-thinking study programmes and strengthening scientific research, the university will enhance its societal impact and attract motivated, change-driven students from both Lithuania and abroad,” said Rector Dr G. Neverienė. She also emphasised that one of the university’s key objectives is preparing for the introduction of doctoral studies.

Dr Helga Marija Kauzonė Appointed Vice-Rector for Research

Dr Helga Marija Kauzonė, an experienced academic and administrator, has assumed the role of Vice-Rector for Research. She obtained a Master’s degree in Management and Business Administration from Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) in 2003 and was awarded a Doctorate in Technological Sciences in 2000.

From 2013 to 2016, Dr Kauzonė served as Vice Minister at Lithuania’s Ministry of Education and Science. Since 2018, she has held the position of Director for Management and Infrastructure at Kaunas Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, while also lecturing at the same university. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the title of Distinguished Lithuanian Healthcare Worker in 2023.

At KSU, Dr Kauzonė’s key priorities include preparing for the launch of doctoral programmes, establishing a strong research team, expanding scientific research and experimental development (R&D) activities, and fostering collaboration with businesses and start-ups on joint R&D projects to drive innovation and generate tangible, science-based value.

She firmly believes that investment in doctoral studies is essential. “Doctoral programmes ensure the sustainability of the academic and research ecosystem, drive scientific progress, enhance research potential, and contribute to the development of highly qualified professionals equipped for future challenges,” affirms Dr H. M. Kauzonė.

Vice-Rector for Studies Dr Lidija Kraujalienė Focuses on Programme Development and Internationalisation

KSU is also reinforcing its academic portfolio with the appointment of a dedicated Vice-Rector for Studies. Dr Lidija Kraujalienė, who previously worked at Mykolas Romeris University as an advisor to the Dean and Director of the Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) programme, has taken on this role.

Dr Kraujalienė completed her Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VGTU) in 2007, obtained a Master’s in Innovation Management from ISM in 2015, and was awarded a Doctorate in Social Sciences (Economics) from VGTU in 2019.

As Vice-Rector for Studies, she will be responsible for enhancing existing programmes, developing a diverse portfolio of new study offerings, and ensuring academic quality. “Our primary objective is to adopt a fresh perspective on the development and expansion of the university’s study programmes, aligning them with the dynamic demands of both national and international labour markets. Internationalisation is a key priority in strengthening the university’s visibility. When preparing students, it is essential to cultivate knowledge and skills on a global scale, equipping them to meet the evolving needs of the digital economy,” states Dr L. Kraujalienė.

Founded in 2003, Kazimieras Simonavičius University (KSU) is an accredited private higher education institution renowned for its innovative approach to learning and research, its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and creativity, and its commitment to career success. In 2024, the magazine Reitingai ranked KSU as the second strongest university in Lithuania, following ISM.

Bartolomeo Rafael Bialas is a renowned brand strategist, market researcher, and business consultant with a global presence. Recognised for his expertise in enhancing organisational performance, he collaborates with businesses and universities across continents. Currently, he serves as a visiting lecturer at KSU, where this semester he is teaching courses on Luxury and Fashion Brand Management, as well as Innovation, to students in the Fashion Industry programme. Bartolomeo has agreed to share insights from his teaching experience at KSU.

Could you introduce yourself?
I’m brand strategist, market researcher, author, and business consultant. My primary focus is helping organisations worldwide increase their profitability by enhancing performance. In addition to my consulting work, I’m an academic and collaborate with 33 universities globally. But first and foremost, I consider myself a business consultant. My projects currently span Latin America and Europe.

Where do you reside?
I live in Las Vegas, USA. Now, I split my time between Las Vegas and Guatemala City, where I also develop businesses. Additionally, I spend about four to five months in Europe each year, where I teach and contribute to academic programmes.

Which subjects do you teach at KSU?
This semester, I’m teaching Luxury and Fashion Brand Management and Innovation at KSU. In the previous semester, I taught courses on Strategic Brand Management and Strategic Branding.

How would you describe KSU? What are its strengths?
KSU is a very liberal institution, and by liberal, I mean it fosters an atmosphere and culture that genuinely stimulate learning. This creates a unique environment for students.

Another strength is its well-developed niche programmes. Take Fashion Management or Aviation Management—students follow a carefully prepared curriculum that equips them to succeed in the business world. This focus on specialised areas sets KSU apart from other Central European universities in countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary.

Why should students choose KSU?
Lithuania itself is a unique country with a rich historical and cultural heritage, offering students an enriching environment. KSU stands out with its strong niche programmes, such as Aviation Management and Fashion Industry studies. This specialisation gives it an edge. It’s clear that specialisation plays a profound role in positioning a university as a leader in its field.

Could you share a memorable moment from your teaching at KSU?
During the last semester, after my final lecture on Strategic Brand Management, my students gave me a standing ovation. They hugged me and shared how much the course meant to them. It was an incredibly emotional moment that touched me on so many levels—emotionally, psychologically, and socially. It’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.

KSU positions itself as a university of progress. Do you agree?
Yes, I think the slogan “Where progress never stops” perfectly reflects KSU’s essence and even its DNA. It’s a relatively small institution, but its emphasis on progress and innovation attracts students from around the world—students who want to learn about entrepreneurship, innovation, and managing start-up organisations.

What advice would you give to young people?
Be curious about the world and step outside your bubble. The world is becoming more diverse and heterogeneous, so it’s crucial to develop tolerance for different cultures, behaviours, and attitudes. The more you understand others, the better equipped you’ll be to succeed.