Ostroh Academy mourns the death of famous Ukrainian poet Ivan Drach

June 19, 2018

It is with deep regret that the collective of the National University of Ostroh Academy learned of the sad news about the death of Ivan Drach, Doctor Honoris Causa of Ostroh Academy, poet, translator, screenwriter, playwright, statesman, public figure, and Hero of Ukraine.

In November 2016, Ivan Drach was admitted into the ranks of the Honorary Doctors of the university during the final solemnities dedicated to the 440th anniversary of Ostroh Academy.

"In 1962 I first came to Ostroh with a group headed by Hrihorii Lohvyn, Professor, architect, art critic, and father of all the Sixtiers. I noticed the unique historical importance of the town back then. And now when we have the revived Ostroh Academy, we can rightly deem it as the center of contemporary science, education, and spirituality. I sincerely thank you for admission into your midst, and I am very pleased about that. Glory to Ostroh Academy, Glory to Ukraine!" noticed Ivan Drach during his inauguration speech then.

The poet repeatedly partook in the solemnities of the Convocation, a diploma delivery ceremony for graduates of Ostroh Academy. He also came with the presentation of one’s collection of poetry "Straw fire" which was published for his 80th anniversary.

The cherished memory of Ivan Fedorovych Drach will forever be in our hearts, and his name will be inscribed in the history of Ostroh Academy for ages.