Awards for the Associates

Proposed by: Academy of Music, University of Ljubljana

Janja Anžič, Head of the Office for Financial Accounting, has shown exceptional dedication and commitment to the team since her recruitment. Her work is professional, thoughtful and competent. In the dynamic environment of the University, her ability to adapt and learn quickly is key, while her flexibility and enthusiastic approach to work bring staff together and ensure good communication.

Proposed by: Academy of Music, University of Ljubljana

Kristina Brezjan, Assistant Secretary General, is committed to the smooth running of all work processes and contributes to the efficient use of new technological solutions, particularly in the area of human resources. Her contribution to the introduction of the new SAP business information system has been invaluable. She is continuously educating herself in the field of professional and human resources, and is thus an indispensable member of the team at the Academy of Music of the University of Ljubljana.

Proposed by: Academy of Music, University of Ljubljana

Maša Medved, Head of the Office for Events and Concert Activities, has significantly expanded and improved the University’s work in the field of concert activity in a relatively short period of time, thus contributing to a better positioning of the Academy of Music of the University of Ljubljana in the artistic sphere. With her kindness, enthusiasm and initiative, she selflessly offers her help to all her colleagues and students. Her organisational skills are a great asset to the Academy.

Proposed by: Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television, University of Ljubljana

Ljiljana Bibič has been working at the Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television of the University of Ljubljana since 2011, and assumed the position of Head of Student Administration Office at the beginning of 2022. Her work can only be described with superlatives, and her dedication to her position and students, as well as her feeling for people in general, are just some of the qualities that distinguish Ms Bibič. With her open and positive attitude, she creates an extremely pleasant working environment that encourages cooperation and reciprocity.

Proposed by: Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television, University of Ljubljana

Milan Plešnar is employed as a technical worker at the Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television of the University of Ljubljana, where he is responsible for both courier work and janitorial tasks. He performs his duties with pride, professionalism and a great deal of understanding. His compassion, ability to foster connections with others and wide range of expertise enable him to solve everyday problems, and his dedication, innovative solutions and equal treatment of everyone make him a vital part of the academic community.

Bojana Bajec, Silva Bandelj, Vera Bogataj, Marija Brković, Mihael Budin, Liljana Bürmen Milenkovič, Peter Černetič, Maja Dejak, Amela Ikovic, Mag. Barbara Kranjc and Mag. Jožica Šmid

Proposed by: Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television, University of Ljubljana

The introduction of the APIS business information system has radically changed the way of working at the University of Ljubljana's Academy of Theatre, Radio, Film and Television. We look back on the past year with sincere gratitude to all our colleagues, whose efforts, dedication and expert knowledge made it possible to implement SAP in the highly specific working environment of the Academy. This achievement is the result of their skills and knowledge, but above all of their heartfelt commitment and collective efforts.

Proposed by: Academy of Fine Arts and Design, University of Ljubljana

Igor Jeraj has been a dedicated technical support worker at the Academy for more than 30 years. Throughout this time he has helped advise students on technical solutions, and has successfully addressed many challenges in this context. His meticulous and selfless work, which often goes beyond his job responsibilities, makes him an essential member of our community, for both students and staff.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Gregor Bajc works at the Infrastructural Centre for Molecular Interactions Analysis at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, and is a leading expert in plasmon resonance-based measurements of molecular interactions. He has co-authored 16 scientific papers and acted as a working supervisor of student theses, some of which have been recognised with the Prešeren Prize. His research results represent an important contribution to the field of biochemical, biological, pharmaceutical and biotechnological sciences.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Svetlana Gogić has been working in the laboratory of the Chair for Soil and Environmental Science at the Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana since 1998. She is involved in teaching, research and specialist projects. She introduces new methods and instruments in her work, and is independent, responsible, precise and efficient. Always friendly and positive, she is of great help to her colleagues and students in laboratory work.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Sabina Knehtl is characterised by her professionalism, complemented by remarkable personal qualities such as her empathy, willingness to help, conflict resolution skills and kindness. She is extremely professional and tireless in carrying out her work. This has been particularly evident in the completion of the old undergraduate, pre-Bologna degree programmes and in the introduction of the new information system at the University of Ljubljana.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Tea Kuzman manages the administrative and professional processes at the Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, with 125 employees. She is faced with complex tasks in coordinating the financial and human resources aspects of teaching, research and professional work, reflecting her organisational skills, sense of responsibility, precision, innovation and talent for smooth cooperation with all the staff at the Faculty.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Fani Oven is a Technical Associate at the Department of Microbiology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, where she provides key support to teaching and research associates and students in their work in the Department's laboratories, which are now at a much higher level of cleanliness and functionality compared to the years before her arrival. She is in charge of the procurement of materials and occupational safety at the laboratories. She shows a great deal of self-initiative, is extremely friendly and popular with her colleagues, as well as meticulous and reliable in her work.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Since she took up her post three years ago, Katarina Rihtaršič, Head of International Cooperation, has made remarkable progress in the field, measurable in terms of indicators and the overall satisfaction of the Faculty's staff, domestic and international students, and foreign partners, in the areas of both studies and research. She is distinguished by her dedication to her work, her caring attitude and her constant striving for progress.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

For more than 35 years, Zdenka Zupančič has been contributing significantly to the successful teaching, research and professional work of the Chair of Plant Technologies and Wine at the Department of Food Science and Technology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. She is characterised by her great dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm for her work. She is very popular among her colleagues, and her meticulousness and motivation show a high level of loyalty and commitment to the Chair and the Department.

Proposed by: Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana

Andreja Žagar joined the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, in 1998 as an associate at the Chair of Wood Pests, Modification and Protection of Wood. She is active in teaching, research and professional work, takes care of laboratory equipment and safety, and assists with the final theses of students. In parallel with her work, she has pursued further education and achieved a new education level. Her work contributes greatly to the progress of the Chair. In addition, she is responsible for the social life of the Chair and the Department of Wood Science and Technology.

Proposed by: School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana

Over the years of working as a member of the IT Department, Jaka Hruševar has set high professional standards. His positive attitude is recognised and appreciated by his colleagues and teachers. His dedication, care and kindness make him an invaluable part of the IT Department and the School of Economics and Business of the University of Ljubljana. His personality and work serve as an example and encouragement to others.

Proposed by: School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana

Vesna Narandja has been a Specialist Adviser in the Student Affairs Office for 31 years. She has always been the key person and first point of contact for students of the School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana. Her work reflects her exceptional commitment, precision, independence and reliability. She is friendly and respectful to both colleagues and students. Always professional and kind, she eases the many administrative burdens of enrolment and other procedures for students. She is considered fair, accessible and responsive by all who know her.

Proposed by: School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana

Nuša Petek is Head of the Quality Assurance Office at the School of Economics and Business, University of Ljubljana. During the last ten years of her work, she has successfully tackled monitoring, measuring and developing various aspects of quality in the teaching process of the School of Economics and Business and in the development of projects in this field. Her work and attitude reflect her outstanding commitment, professionalism, precision, independence and proactive approach, which have contributed significantly to the development of the School as a modern, international and high-quality faculty. 

Proposed by: Faculty of Architecture, University of Ljubljana

Karmen Marolt, Secretary General of the Faculty, is a dedicated, conscientious and insightful colleague – a role model for all professional staff of the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Ljubljana. She has a great deal of self-initiative and is not afraid of new challenges. She has an unwavering will and belief in all that is good, useful and fair, regardless of the work required to maintain such standards.

Proposed by: Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Vera Wabra Lekše has been successfully managing the Human Resources Department of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana for many years. With her professional approach, she effectively manages the varied events resulting from changes in labour legislation and the introduction of new IT systems. With a critical eye, she ensures the right direction for the Faculty's HR strategy, while at the same time having an exceptional feeling for her fellow human beings.

Mateja Matjaž and Katja Perc

Proposed by: Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana

Upon transition to the new working environment of the SAP business information system, the expertise of Mateja Matjaž and Katja Perc contributed significantly to the creation of an extremely heterogeneous system of purchasing groups at the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Ljubljana. They actively participated in the set-up of the system and later provided selfless support to all users in understanding and using it. Their contribution is invaluable.

Proposed by: Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana

The work of Ms Mateja Terčič, Head of the Research Office, contributes significantly to the development of research activities at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana. She improves her knowledge at university and international training courses, encourages others to do so, and is a role model for her team. Her professionalism, composure and expertise are the qualities that make her respected by her colleagues.

Zinka Ahlin, Marjan Bokal, Irena Čižman Bohinc, Neli Jandrić, Vida Jezernik, Tadeja Kovač, Vesna Kranjc, Polona Kužnar Matijević, Emil Meden, Simon Lavrič, Mojca Lozej, Urša Majerčič, Primož Pečnik, Terezija Sinjur, Miran Slobodjanac and Mateja Škerjanc

Proposed by: Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana

The professional staff of the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology of the University of Ljubljana successfully implemented SAP at their Faculty, a unified academic business and information system which allows for greater transparency and comparability of data, and the coordinated work of all members. Through their efforts, they have contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the system, to the creation of instructions for the correct use of it, and to the training of other employees at the member faculty.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana

Anita Bartol is known for selflessly helping and passing on her knowledge to her colleagues in the Student Support Office, which has undergone a change in the way it works in recent years. Anita is an important building block in the smooth running of the entire Faculty. The transfer of her knowledge to other employees enriches the working environment and the organisational climate. She is also an important asset in ensuring that the Slovenian language is used appropriately in the Faculty’s business environment.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana

Mag. Primož Kočar, the Head of Technical Maintenance Services, is highly adept at organising and optimising the work processes in the Technical Maintenance Services, which contributes to the efficient progress of the Faculty's business. The work is a career challenge for him. Among other things, he has actively and successfully taken on the management and preparation of public procurement contracts relating to renovation and refurbishment, and has carried out a number of complex renovation and maintenance projects at the Faculty.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana

Herman Mikuž is responsible for the further development of the library of the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, especially in the field of astronomy. He thus contributes to the development of the Slovenian technical language for astronomy and astrophysics. He is an outstanding observer in the field of astronomy. In addition to being involved in the discovery of two new comets, he has also discovered a large number of asteroids and supernovae. He regularly passes on his expertise to younger members of the Faculty in the context of his work assignments.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana

Tanja Zakrajšek's experience, patience, dedication and creativity have contributed significantly to the further development of the Research Office of the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics at the University of Ljubljana. She has also played a key role in the implementation of the SAP system, monitoring the financial situation of both projects and the overall business of the Faculty. Her commitment to transferring knowledge to her colleagues is also important, as it ensures a smooth workflow.

Proposed by: Faculty of Computer and Information Science, University of Ljubljana

Zala Cimperman, an employee of the Dean's Office of the Faculty of Computer and Information Science at the University of Ljubljana, is the key person in charge of the management of the GovernmentConnect document system, which improves the user experience of employees at both the Faculty and the wider University of Ljubljana. In addition, she actively promotes occupational health, organises sports activities and is indispensable in solving administrative challenges.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Mag. Tanja Mavrič Rušt, the Head of the Research Department at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Ljubljana, is in charge of comprehensive administrative support for scientific research activities at the Faculty, which includes informing researchers about new calls for proposals, application requirements, the correctness of applications and support for project implementation. With a proactive approach and a great deal of diplomacy, she coordinates the requirements of the contracting authorities, the accounting department and the staffing capabilities of the laboratories.

Proposed by: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Nika Vardjan Naglič, the Head of the Student Affairs Office of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana, ensures the timely and correct enrolment of students, handles changes to study programmes and ensures the legal and formal integrity of all administrative procedures related to the Faculty's academic affairs. She is vital in the digitisation of enrolment procedures, attendance lists and timetable management. She is distinguished by her self-initiative, creativity and sense of responsibility.

Proposed by: Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana

Matija Vedenik has a superb overview of his field of work and is extremely diligent, meticulous, conscientious and systematic in his work. What is particularly valuable about his work is his approach to finding answers and solutions to problems – he examines each situation carefully and places it in a broader context of understanding, while also clearly pointing out the possible consequences of certain choices, thus enabling work and decisions to be made on an appropriate and understandable legal basis.

Proposed by: Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana

Tina Zupanek's work is characterised by exceptional diligence and great expertise, conscientiousness, accuracy, reliability and initiative. This positive attitude both to her work and her colleagues has enabled her to set up stable operation of the Financial and Accounting Department, which she took over at a time when the Service was facing major staff changes. She approaches all challenges with a professional and optimistic outlook.

Darinka-Ika Bartol, Saša Blatnik Ristović, Klara Čuden, Barbara Dolenc, Ema Karo, Olivera Novaković, Tina Pleško and Nataša Založnik

Proposed by: Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana

With their expert knowledge and willingness to cooperate among the members of the University of Ljubljana, the staff of the Scientific Research Institute at the Faculty of Arts of the University of Ljubljana make an essential contribution to the excellence of the University of Ljubljana in the field of science and research, and thus to the reputation of the University as a whole. Their activities in the framework of the highly successful European Researchers' Night – Humanities, it's You! project help raise awareness of the importance of science in society.

Proposed by: Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana

After graduating from the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana, with a degree in Chemistry, he joined the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana. He is extremely precise and reliable in his work. He is responsible for communication with students in the Institute's Student Office. He also works as an IT specialist, which requires a particularly systematic approach.

Anja Gomizelj, Boštjan Kolenc and Petra Tomc

Proposed by: Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana

The project to build a triple campus for the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Ljubljana is one of the largest in the history of the University of Ljubljana and the Faculty of Medicine. Due to the complexity of the project, cooperation between the Faculty and University is crucial, and the expert work of the University's investment service staff has contributed to the successful implementation of the triple campus project of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Ljubljana, in particular the Vrazov Trg Campus project. The contribution of the staff of the University's Investment and Real Estate Management Service is invaluable for the development of the teaching, scientific research and professional activities of the Faculty.

Proposed by: Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana

With her diligent, accurate and reliable work and high ethical standards, Sabina Arhar, an employee of the secretariat of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering of the University of Ljubljana, is a role model for many of her colleagues. Not one to look down on any task, she is a loyal member of the team and contributes significantly to our everyday lives. The results of her work often appear almost invisibly, as a matter of course, but it is always clear that Sabina Arhar is behind the smooth running of things. 

Proposed by: Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Marinko Kondič is the head of the Project Management Office and an indispensable member of the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Ljubljana, where he participates in the Faculty's Administration Board as well as in other committees. His extensive knowledge is invaluable, his work precise and always reliable. It is hard to imagine the Project Management Office without his positive outlook on even the most “unsolvable” problems, and his kindness and willingness to help anyone who needs it.

Proposed by: Faculty of Natural Sciences and Engineering, University of Ljubljana

Alenka Šalej Lah took over the internationalisation area in the Project Management Office of the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Ljubljana in 2022. With great effort and knowledge sharing, she has given the field new dimensions and turned the eternal “I don't have the means to go abroad” into endless possibilities that allow for the expansion of collaborations beyond borders. She is reliable, respectful, hard-working, communicative and always ready to help.

Proposed by: Rector’s Office, University of Ljubljana

Ružica Gatarič works with dedication in the head office at the Rector's Office of the University of Ljubljana. Her role in the transformation of the Office’s work, especially in the transition from physical filing to a paperless environment, has been invaluable. Ms Gatarič's meticulous diligence ensures that the processes in the offices run smoothly. Her experience and knowledge are a key pillar of our operations.

Proposed by: Rector’s Office, University of Ljubljana

Dr Mojca Kotar's dedication and expert knowledge have made a significant contribution to the development of library activities at the University of Ljubljana. As a renowned expert, her vision and innovative approach contribute to the visibility and development of the University of Ljubljana, while her work sets an example of innovation that inspires the academic community.

Proposed by: Rector’s Office, University of Ljubljana

Teja Velkavrh's responsible and solution-oriented approach have made her indispensable in dealing with the University's ownership and property law matters. Her assistance prevents misunderstandings of the law and the Statutes of the University of Ljubljana. Ms Velkavrh is a reliable and responsible colleague who is highly valued by both the Rector's Office and the faculty members of the University of Ljubljana.

Marija Božič, Anamarija Dolenc, Mojca Kucler Dolinar and Adriana Košak

Proposed by: Faculty of Theology, University of Ljubljana

During the APIS implementation phase, the proposed staff members, with the support of management, designed and implemented a number of decisions and tasks in the areas of HR, financial accounting and organisation. In addition, they provided knowledge transfer and took care of the induction of other staff members. The time spent on the project often exceeded the scope of their mandatory working hours and interfered with their free time. The successful completion of the APIS implementation phase required the coordination, support and commitment of the Faculty of Theology, University of Ljubljana.