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.