On March 19, Eduard Balashov, the Rector of the National University of Ostroh Academy, Mykola Zhulynskyi, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, and Larysa Ivshyna, an Academician of the Ostroh Academic Brotherhood, congratulated Lina Kostenko on her birthday. They presented her with an Honorary Doctor diploma, an academic gown, and a ring, which are traditional symbols of the highest academic title.
Lina Kostenko is a prominent figure in Ukrainian literature from the 20th and 21st centuries. As a representative of the Ukrainian Sixtiers poets, she contributed high artistic standards, intellectual depth, and a strong sense of civic responsibility to Ukrainian culture. Her work is significant in the history of cultural resistance, the nation's spiritual self-affirmation, and the preservation of Ukrainian identity.
Lina Kostenko's poetry, prose, and journalism have influenced the moral and worldview values of Ukrainians for decades. Her works emphasise the importance of respecting human dignity, taking responsibility for one’s actions, committing to the truth, and fostering a love for the native language, culture, and historical memory.
The tradition of Ostroh Academy strongly aligns with the values of Lina Kostenko. The University revives and develops the Ukrainian educational and spiritual tradition while fostering responsible thinking, national dignity, freedom of spirit, and intellectual integrity. Lina Kostenko’s work and the mission of Ostroh Academy converge in their understanding of the individual as a bearer of culture, memory, and responsibility to society.
In accordance with the decision of the Academic Council of the National University of Ostroh Academy, Lina Kostenko was conferred the title of Honorary Doctor of the University “for her significant personal contribution to the development of Ukrainian education and culture, the promotion of the nation’s spiritual values, the development of the intellectual space, and the preservation of the foundations of Ukrainian identity.”
The Rector of the University, Eduard Balashov, noted:
“On behalf of the entire university community, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Lina Vasylivna for her many years of dedicated work. Her commitment to art, personal integrity, and devotion to her people have made a significant impact. The invaluable spiritual legacy she has created for Ukraine and the world will be cherished for generations to come.
This decision shows that the Ukrainian language, culture, and spirituality are essential for societal development and shaping the future.”
Vivat to Lina Vasylivna Kostenko, Honorary Doctor of Ostroh Academy!
