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What did you realize in 2025 about yourself, your work, or UWB as a whole that you want to carry into 2026?

Miroslav Lávička, Rector
In 2025, I once again confirmed that I enjoy and find fulfillment in working for the university—especially when representing the University of West Bohemia at the World Expo EXPO 2025 in Osaka. At that moment, I was reminded of how many outstanding experts and dedicated people work at UWB and how strong a team I have around me. At the same time, it is becoming clear that further progress will require greater effort and the courage, energy, and determination to see things through to the end. This is a path built on Responsibility, Integrity, and applying the very best that our university has within it.

Magdalena Toušová, Head of the University of the Third Age
The year 2025 reminded me how important it is to do work that brings joy and meaning. Working with seniors has shown me that even small steps can bring great happiness. A major experience for me was the nomination for the Pilsen Legend award—the support from UWB’s leadership and the votes from the public were confirmation that my work has real value. What I value most is being able to connect people, build bridges between generations, institutions, and communities. That is what I want to carry into 2026.

Petr Jícha, Head of the Dormitories and Canteens Administration
I realized that my work is not just about completing tasks, but above all about responsibility, decision-making, and impact on others. I often deal with things that are not immediately visible, yet they influence the outcome in the long term. My work teaches me patience, communication, and the ability to look for solutions even in uncertainty—for example, when assessing the level of uncertainty and time risk related to the timely completion of the reconstruction of the Baarova 36 student dormitory.

Petr Šimon, Ombudsman
The year 2025 was my second year as the UWB Ombudsman, dealing with submissions from both students and staff. Compared to the previous year, the number of submissions increased and their nature also changed, which I see as good news. It confirms the trust that my team and I have managed to build and maintain—the trust that, as an ombudsman, I can help in difficult situations and that turning to me makes sense.

Ondřej Bohatý, Chair of the Student Chamber of the Academic Senate of UWB
In 2025, I realized how quickly student representation can develop beyond UWB itself. This year, the Student Chamber of the Academic Senate strengthened its presence in the Czech Republic and across Europe—within the Council of Higher Education Institutions, the European Students’ Union, and the EUPeace alliance. At the same time, I came to see how closely and openly people at UWB work together and how strong the mutual understanding is between students, academics, and the university leadership. Thanks to this, it was easier to grow into the new role of chair and to better understand how the university functions.

Dana Packanová, Head of the Department of Academic Affairs
For me, the university is a unique community where processes take on a life of their own. Our biggest themes are communication, openness, and mutual respect. In 2026, we are opening doors for students both through the counseling center and through expanded options for electronic submissions.

Describe in one adjective what you think 2026 will be like.

Miroslav Lávička, Rector: Ambitious (numerologically, it is a Year 1—a year of new beginnings, in which we launch a strategic plan and open space for challenges, projects, and opportunities that will move our university to a new level).

Magdalena Toušová, Head of the University of the Third Age: Inspiring (a year full of new challenges, learning, change, ideas, joy, and opportunities for growth).

Petr Jícha, Head of the Dormitories and Canteens Administration: Successful. From a global perspective through the economy (continued stabilization of energy prices), political developments (the end of the war in Ukraine), and technology (changes in the automotive industry).

Petr Šimon, Ombudsman: Interesting. In every sense of the word.

Ondřej Bohatý, Chair of the Student Chamber of the Academic Senate: Ambitious. I believe that new opportunities for cooperation will emerge for students both at home and across Europe, and that we will build on this year’s experience.

Dana Packanová, Head of the Department of Academic Affairs: Self-made. Let it be open and welcoming.