To recognize and celebrate this dedication, a brand-new event called Engagemangshögtiden was held in connection with LiU’s 50th anniversary in May 2025. The goal was to create a festive evening honoring the voluntary commitment of students, which is such an important part of LiU.
The idea came from the students
It all started as an initiative within the Studentledningsrådet, where the student unions raised the question of how the university could recognize voluntary student engagement. Inspired by the University of Gothenburg, a dedicated ceremony was proposed, which eventually became part of LiU’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The event was organized by three driven students, Hannah Gunnhagen, Ellen Ivarius Andersson, and Anna Wikström, who, together with the university, wanted to highlight and celebrate the importance of student voluntary work.
“We wanted it to feel special and formal. That’s why it’s called the Engagemangshögtiden, as a nod to the academic ceremony.”
There was some uncertainty ahead of the premiere.
“We thought no one would want to come to our strange party,” Ellen laughs. “We even had a Plan B - to send out invitations in several rounds if we didn’t fill all the seats.”
But they had nothing to worry about. On May 21st, nearly 270 people - students, university staff, and specially invited guests - gathered for a formal dinner filled with singing, speeches, and surprises.
An evening to remember
Among the highlights of the evening was LiU’s Vice-Chancellor Jan-Ingvar Jönsson standing on a chair and a surprise performance by the LiU student choir Studentsångarna, which was staged behind the back of one of the organizers.
“We tricked Hannah into thinking there were technical problems on the dance floor so we couldn’t leave the dining hall. When the choir marched in and started singing, we saw how she realized what was happening. It was a really special moment,” Ellen says with a laugh.
The guests clearly appreciated the event as well.
“One guest came up afterward and said it was ‘11 out of 10’ and that this absolutely has to become a tradition,” Ellen shares.
Introducing the new “Engaged student of the year”- award
During the evening, the new award “Engaged Student of the Year” was also presented to four students, one from each faculty, recognized for their voluntary contributions.
“Student engagement is not only a way to make lifelong friends, but it’s also important for personal development; it helps us become more democratic, considerate, and better at collaborating. These are qualities that matter throughout life. LiU’s fantastic student life is a huge competitive advantage for the university, and it’s entirely built on voluntary engagement,” the group explains.
This award complements the teaching awards the student unions already present to teachers, but here the focus is on the actively engaged students. Many of the winners had themselves nominated others and were both happy and moved to be recognized.
“The motivations were so touching. You could hear the cheers and applause, it got quite emotional,” Anna recalls.
Student engagement shaping LiU
The importance of student engagement for life at LiU is something that many students, staff, and alumni testify to. Engagemangshögtiden is an example of what can happen when students are given the space to think freely, dream big, and shape their own experience.
“The best part has probably been that we could dream freely about the event and see how much support and encouragement we received from the university. Above all, it was so much fun that so many wanted to come. If we could have invited every engaged student, we would have,” the organizers say.
They are also clear that future events will require both structure and support. They are especially grateful for the backing from LiU, particularly project manager Sophie Dufwenberg and event coordinator Christina Almtun.
“We would never have pulled this off without their help. From table linens and banners to balloon arrangements and planning support, they have been invaluable,” Hannah adds.
Looking ahead
Interest in Engagemangshögtiden was high. The organizers hope the event will return annually and include even more of those who help build student life at LiU.
“We would have loved to invite even more,” Anna says. “We initially invited 600 people but only had space for 270 guests. The interest was huge! Next time we’d love to include more student associations, fadderier and festerier, they’re such a vital part of student life.”
“We would also like to invite department heads and program coordinators,” Ellen adds.
“It felt like something new and historic was beginning,” Anna concludes. "We truly hope this continues. There are so many amazing student contributions that deserve recognition.”