UHK ∙ Students, News, Employees ∙11/18/2024

University of Hradec Králové Honors Outstanding Personalities, Including an Alumnus with International Impact for the First Time

The UHK Social Evening, traditionally held at the University of Hradec Králové, celebrated the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day and International Students' Day. Every year, the Rector's Medal is awarded, along with recognition for faculty members, students, and, for the first time, an alumnus. The ceremonial event was opened by the Mixed Choir of UHK, and the unique band Amusement Park provided musical accompaniment throughout the evening.

The event was officially launched by the newly inaugurated UHK Rector, Jan Kříž, who reflected on the events of November 1989: "The events of that time left an indelible mark on me as a 15-year-old high school student in Hradec Králové. I absorbed news on television, read articles in newspapers (particularly in Svobodné slovo, not Rudé právo), and participated in strikes and demonstrations, even jingling keys. Back then, there was much discussion about when we would 'catch up' with our neighbors, Austria and Germany."

A few years after 1989, I realized that the greatest gift of the Velvet Revolution was freedom. Thanks to it, I could express my opinions as a student without fear of being overheard by the wrong ears. I could travel across Europe and the world, learning that while the air we breathe is the same everywhere, cultural and societal differences are immense. Freedom allowed me to vote for my chosen representatives and then watch and even critique how well they, or their victorious opponents, performed.

Jan Kříž

UHK Rector

He also addressed the current global situation, emphasizing the value of freedom: "Today, I no longer dwell on whether Austria has a better standard of living than we do; I value human freedom above all. In light of recent global events, I am increasingly reminded that freedom cannot be taken for granted. In geographically close nations, we can see live examples of what authoritarian rulers can do. Let us cherish our freedom, never take it for granted, and ensure we never have to fear losing it."

This year’s awards were presented to these exceptional UHK personalities:

✱ Faculty of Education UHK

assoc. prof. Iva Jedličková

She actively engages with the affairs of both the faculty and the university and possesses an exceptional understanding of regulations, legislation, scientific projects, international relations, and personnel development. Her meticulous approach to teaching is highly appreciated by students, as reflected in their positive evaluations. She has gained extensive experience from various positions within the faculty and the rectorate, where she has significantly contributed to shaping scientific and international strategies. Her expertise is further evidenced by her membership in scientific councils and participation in numerous research projects, which greatly enrich the development of the faculty.

Nominated for her outstanding and multifaceted contributions to the development of the Faculty of Education UHK and the University of Hradec Králové as a whole.

＝ Faculty of Informatics and Management UHK

prof. Josef Hynek

Prof. Hynek has been serving at the UHK for over 33 years. He has significantly contributed to the development of the university in his roles as both Dean and Rector. As Rector, he created the conditions for establishing the Faculty of Science (PřF UHK) and the construction of its building. He is recognized as one of the founders of FIM (Faculty of Informatics and Management), and during his tenure as Dean, the FIM building in the Na Soutoku campus was constructed. Under his leadership, the faculty achieved numerous accreditations for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, as well as habilitation and professorship appointment procedures.

Nominated for his extraordinary and continuous contributions to the development of the Faculty of Informatics and Management and the University of Hradec Králové as a whole.

⋯ Philosophical Faculty UHK

dr. Miroslav Joukl

The faculty recognizes, in this case, a long-term contribution to the development of educational activities, an innovative approach to teaching, and inspiring student leadership. Dr. Miroslav Joukl has been working in the Department of Sociology for over ten years. Under his leadership, the department, with active involvement from students, has significantly contributed to scientific and research activities focused on the Hradec Králové region, thus supporting its development.

Nominated for his long-term contribution to the development of educational activities, an innovative approach to teaching, and inspiring student leadership.

∼ Faculty of Science UHK

dr. Michaela Křížová

Dr. Křížová is an inspiring figure at the Faculty of Science, whose passion for teaching and tireless work has motivated many students to pursue careers in physics education. She actively participates in organizing popular science events, making science accessible to the general public as well as to primary and secondary schools. In addition to supporting students, she is an invaluable asset to her colleagues, always willing and ready to help. Her optimism, openness, and energy foster a positive atmosphere across the faculty, making her a key pillar of the team.

Nominated for her exceptionally innovative, inspiring, human-centered, and motivating preparation of students in the natural sciences, as well as for her long-standing participation in the Faculty of Science's popularization activities.

✱ Faculty of Education UHK

Vít Ondroušek

He is a 4th-year student in the Graphic and Intermedia Creation program at the Department of Visual Culture and Textile Design, Faculty of Education UHK. During his studies, he actively participated in all art exhibitions and competitions organized by the department and even won the competition for designing the logo of the NAKI III – Threads of Memory project, which was used in related activities and outputs.

He also took part in the International BookVision 2024 competition on the theme "Expected Delay," the Annual Student Work Exhibition at the Petrof Gallery, and created posters for the 160th anniversary of the PETROF company. His work was featured in the exhibition On Movement at the Hollar Gallery in Prague.

＝ Faculty of Informatics and Management UHK

Tomáš Kubišta, Jakub Doležal and Jakub Kyzr

These students formed an active team that achieved several significant and unique awards through their activities:

Winners of the CACIO IT Project of the Year competition
3rd Place at the Foxconn AI Hackathon
3rd Place at the NKÚ Hackathon "Hackujstás"

They also participated in solving major projects, including collaborations with the Hradec Králové Region focused on developing a data portal with a data map and AI, as well as a project aimed at developing AI integration for the company GIST. Moreover, they frequently represent their faculty and the University of Hradec Králové at various events and conferences.

⋯ Philosophical Faculty UHK

Mgr. Jaroslav Malík

Jaroslav Malík focuses on pressing and current topics regarding the impact of science and technology on human lives. His primary area of interest is the philosophical reflection on artificial intelligence. In this field, he has authored several scholarly articles. His latest publication is Crossing the Trust Gap in Medical AI: Building an Abductive Bridge for xAI, which was published this year in the journal Philosophy and Technology. This journal ranks in the first quartile of the Scopus database and is currently the third most-cited journal in the category of Philosophy – History of Philosophy – Philosophy of Science.

Jaroslav Malík has repeatedly represented the Philosophical Faculty at international conferences, most recently participating in August at the prestigious 25th World Congress of Philosophy in Rome. He also organized an international event directly at the faculty: the workshop Binary Morality: New Perspectives on AI Ethics, which took place in May this year.

∼ Faculty of Science UHK

Filip Tomíček

Filip Tomíček is an exemplary student whose approach and activity significantly contribute to promoting both the Faculty of Science and the University of Hradec Králové. As a member of the UHK Ambassadors Program, he actively participates in representing the university at various events. His friendly and helpful attitude leaves a positive impression on everyone involved, and through his involvement in the "Buddies for Freshmen" program, he has become a valuable support for many faculty students. Filip is reliable and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Alumnus Award

Mgr. Jan Jirásek, internationally recognized composer

Jan Jirásek is nominated for his significant contribution to promoting the reputation of the Faculty of Education and the University of Hradec Králové. Through his internationally recognized work, he has greatly contributed to the promotion of Czech culture while actively participating in the education of new generations of composers worldwide. His artistic achievements and successes are an example of an outstanding alumnus who represents his Alma Mater at the highest level.

UHK Rector’s Medal

prof. Kamil Kuča

Under the leadership of Professor Kamil Kuča, the University of Hradec Králové has experienced unprecedented qualitative growth, both within the Czech context and internationally. Since 2016, UHK’s progress has been demonstrated by its debut inclusion in prestigious rankings such as THE and QS Universities Rankings. It was Kamil Kuča's managerial courage and innovative approach to the management of science, research, and innovation at UHK that initiated the university's qualitative growth and enhanced project management.

In addition to his remarkable success as an inspiring scientist, Kamil Kuča has also contributed to the development of the university on a more "human" level. He has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to address issues constructively, with dignity, and with genuine respect for others. Alongside his role as a manager, he has also been a friend and supporter to many staff members, faculty, and students at the university.