Held every second year, the Academic Ceremony at Dalarna University highlights and recognises the academic achievements of researchers and teachers. Dating back to medieval times, the tradition is one upheld by most if not all universities and higher education institutions in Sweden.
Merging tradition with contemporary overtones, Dalarna University’s academic ceremony is held alternate years in Falun and Borlänge.
Doctoral Degree Conferment Ceremony and the Inauguration of Professors
The Doctoral Degree Conferment Ceremony is the formal event at the University where doctoral students who have completed their doctorate are celebrated. Honorary doctors are also conferred for their distinguished contributions to their field. Those being conferred enter the stage, where they are greeted by the conferring officer, who presents them with a laurel wreath or doctoral hat and a diploma.
The inauguration of professors has medieval origins that reflect the historical ties to the church. In the past, when a member of the cathedral chapter was appointed to their office, they were given a special seat in the choir stalls (stallum in Latin). The installation of a new professor takes place when the Vice-Chancellor formally awards the new professor their diploma.
Honorary Doctors
The title of Honorary Doctor is awarded to those who have played a significant role at Dalarna University and who have clear ties to our research or education or who have otherwise made outstanding contributions in their fields.
Honours and Recognition
During the ceremony, Dalarna University honours associate professors (docents), adjunct professors, guest professors, distinguished and recognised university teachers, and senior lecturers promoted on artistic grounds.
Vice-Chancellor's Installation
The transition of the Vice-Chancellor is a formal ceremony where the outgoing Vice-Chancellor hands over the Vice-Chancellor's chain of office to their successor. The chain is placed around the new Vice-Chancellor's shoulders during the installation ceremony after which it is used during formal occasions.
Awards
Awards for Collaboration (Samverkanspriser)
There are two awards for collaboration: one is awarded for internal collaboration and one for external collaboration, can be external partners and university staff members or departments who have made practical efforts to develop collaboration between Dalarna University and businesses, the public sector, or other organisations in Dalarna, Sweden, or globally.
Education Award (Pedagogiskt pris)
Dalarna's Student Union presents this award to teachers who have demonstrated the ability to adapt their teaching according to their students, share their enthusiasm for their subject, and establish a strong rapport with students.