These young professionals have not only acquired cutting-edge knowledge in economics, management, finance, and the social sciences—they are also prepared to become active drivers of change in both their local communities and the wider world, where technology, climate, geopolitics, and labour markets are evolving at an unprecedented pace. FESS graduation ceremonies celebrate not only the completion of an academic journey but also the beginning of a new chapter of responsibility: the ability to develop sustainable solutions and strengthen the competitiveness of Latvia and Europe on the global stage.
“By graduating from the University of Latvia, you also become architects of our shared future—architects of change in a complex and rapidly changing world,” says Professor Jānis Priede, Dean of the UL Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, addressing this year's graduates. “The knowledge and skills you have gained at the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences provide you with a unique toolkit: strong analytical and critical thinking, the ability to innovate, and a deep understanding of societal processes. Global transformations—digital transformation, artificial intelligence, the circular and green economy, demographic challenges, and geopolitical instability—require exactly the kind of professionals you are: courageous, responsible, and capable of developing complex solutions.
To those receiving a bachelor's degree, I encourage you not to stop here but to continue your growth through master's studies or professional development. To our master's graduates, I invite you to embrace leadership, inspire others, and create value that extends beyond Latvia's borders. True excellence lies not only in the knowledge you have accumulated, but in your ability to apply it to build a better society. The Faculty is proud of you, and we are confident that your contribution will strengthen Latvia. I wish you success and happiness—the future is in your hands! You are, and will always remain, part of the University of Latvia's story, because you helped create it together with us.”
We are especially proud of the 33 graduates—bachelor's and master's degree recipients in the social sciences—who are graduating with distinction this year. The 2026 graduates with distinction are:
Agnese Kristīne Huhka, Aija Egija Arnicāne, Alina Savrucka, Anastasija Ašuiko, Anna Jupite, Armands Ļitvinovs, Beāte Annija Urbanoviča, Dace Rukmane, Daniils Prohorovs, Elizabete Oboruna-Bernāte, Ērika Bukovska, Fanny Rosa Aurora Natri, Ieva Stankeviča, Ilvita Marnauza, Ilze Norvaiša, Ilze Verpakovska, Ilze Ķirse-Ķirša, Ināra Babre, Kārlis Grants, Klinta Dzelme Kola, Kristiāns Ločmelis, Līva Staķava, Maija Tiva Hilla, Mario Patricio Anabalón Astudillo, Poļina Zavgorodnaja, Raimonds Škapars, Randa Ķeņģe, Reina Rituma, Renāte Meldere, Samanta Linmeijere, Santa Irša, Santa Makarova, and Tīna Birģele.
This summer, 158 UL FESS graduates will also receive the Rector's Commendation for their outstanding final theses, many of which address issues of significant societal importance.
To all UL FESS graduates of the summer of 2026, may your graduation day be filled with joy, pride, and inspiration! Your achievements are our shared success and a source of strength for Latvia's future.
The UL FESS summer graduation ceremonies are scheduled for 17 June and 1 July 2026.
 of the University of Latvia (UL), as we proudly celebrate our graduates who have spent their years of study engaged in rigorous learning and a challenging journey of personal growth. In the summer of 2026, a total of 551 new bachelor's and master's graduates complete their studies at UL FESS.){kind=link}