On the Day of the Christian Family, the graduation ceremony of nearly 500 graduates from Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” filled Aula Maxima to the brim with solemnity, inspiration, and a deep sense of belonging. The event brought together the academic leadership, lecturers, parents, institutional representatives, partners, and numerous guests who shared one of the most significant moments in the lives of the Class of 2025.
The President of the University,
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krasimir Nedyalkov, welcomed the graduates with words that highlighted the role of the university community as “a center of knowledge, inspiration, and spiritual strength.” He emphasized that the total number of university alumni has exceeded 50,000 successfully accomplished professionals. The President reminded everyone that during their years of study, students and lecturers were “one family,” united by a shared pursuit of growth, responsibility, and values that will continue to guide the young graduates in their professional and personal journeys.
The Rector, Prof. Dr. Petar Hristov, presented the diplomas and awards to the top graduates of the Class of 2025 and congratulated all students on their perseverance, ambition, and high academic achievements that define them as confident young professionals. He stressed the university’s key role in preparing thoughtful, engaged, and value-oriented specialists.
Prof. Andriana Andreeva addressed the graduates with a heartfelt and inspiring message.
“You are now part of the great community of Varna Free University — a community of knowledgeable, thoughtful, and free people,” she said. “Carry this belonging with pride, and wherever your path leads you, leave light behind. Do not waste your time, be brave, be creators, be people unafraid to follow their dreams.” She also shared that part of her academic path was shaped precisely at this university.
Deputy Mayor Iliya Koev delivered a message to the young graduates — encouraging them to stay in Bulgaria and realize their potential in Varna, where their knowledge, energy, and professionalism are vital for the city’s development and for the well-being of society.
On behalf of the graduating students, Violeta Yakova delivered a speech about the importance of personal choice, the courage to seek fulfilling work, and the confidence to think creatively in a dynamic and ever-changing world.
Among the guests of the official ceremony were Judge Aneta Bratanova – Deputy Chairperson of the Varna Court of Appeal, Prof. Dr. Todorka Kostadinova from the Medical University of Varna, Donika Mihaleva from the Education and Youth Activities Directorate of the Municipality of Varna, representatives of universities and research institutions, as well as members of the Board of Trustees and partner organizations. Their presence emphasized the significance of the event and the long-standing connections between the university and the academic and public spheres.
Varna Free University also received congratulatory letters from:
Prof. Dr. Miglena Temelkova – Chairperson of the Council of Rectors
Rumen Radev – Chairperson of the Association of Industrial Capital in Bulgaria
Marin Marinov – Chairperson of the Varna Court of Appeal
Elena Yanakieva – Chairperson of the Varna Administrative Court
Dr. Irena Radeva – Head of the Regional Department of Education – Varna
Vladislav Bakalov – Chairperson of the Standing Committee “Youth Activities and Sports,” Municipal Council of Varna
Flotilla Admiral Prof. Dr. Kalin Kalinov – Rector of the Naval Academy “N. Y. Vaptsarov”
Prof. Dr. Dimitar Raykov – Rector of the Medical University – Varna
Prof. Dr. Dragomir Plamenov – Rector of the Technical University – Varna
Prof. Dr. Evgeni Stanimirov – Rector of the University of Economics – Varna
Eng. Penko Stoyanov – Chairperson of the Regional Office of the Chamber of Builders
Elena Koseva and Ivelina Shaban – Executive Directors of “St. St. Constantine and Helena Holding” Ltd