OMU Unveils Monument Honouring Philanthropists for Contributions to Education and Science

20 Mayıs 2025, Salı - 14:26

Güncelleme: 21 Mayıs 2025, Çarşamba - 14:37

DİNLE

Paylaş

To mark the 50th anniversary of its founding, Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) inaugurated the “OMU Philanthropists Monument,” dedicated to honouring those who have significantly contributed to the university. The opening ceremony, enlivened by a performance from OMU’s Folk Dance Team, winner of the Turkish Folk Dance Competition, was attended by Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın, protocol members, benefactors, and university personnel.

The ceremony began with folk dances in front of the Rectorate Building. In her speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın expressed her gratitude to the donors who have contributed to the university’s development, stating, “This monument symbolizes your faith in and support for OMU.”

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony with Distinguished Benefactors

Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın cut the ribbon together with key philanthropists who have made significant contributions to OMU at various times, including:

Samsun Atakum District Governor and Deputy Governor Kemal Yıldız, on behalf of the Provincial Special Administration,
President of the OMU Foundation Prof. Dr. Murat Eliöz,
Ali Cüneyt Arpacıoğlu, representing ADEKA Pharmaceutical Industry,
Akif Arslan and his family,
Mayor of Çarşamba Municipality Hüseyin Dündar,
Chair of the Çarşamba Commodity Exchange Assembly Hacı Toraman,
Fikret Yeşilyurt, representing Yeşilyurt Iron and Steel and Port Enterprises,
Dr. Alaattin Altın, representing the OMU Campus Mosque Construction and Maintenance Association.

Also in attendance were Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten, Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, and Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer, Secretary General Erhan Burak Pancar, along with numerous academics, administrative staff, and students.

“We offer our heartfelt gratitude to our benefactors who shed light not only on today but also on tomorrow”

In her opening speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın stated:

“Today, just as in the early years of our university, we are honoured to be joined by our devoted benefactors who have wholeheartedly supported the development of our institution. These generous individuals, moved by the sentiment ‘We owe a debt to our nation,’ have stood by us in our times of need. Their financial and moral support has enabled us to add new buildings, laboratories, and learning spaces to our campus, enhancing both our physical capacity and the quality of education we offer.

With this monument being inaugurated in front of the Rectorate building, we will both honour these valuable individuals and introduce them to future generations. On behalf of the university community, I extend my deepest gratitude to our philanthropists whose meaningful contributions to education and science continue to illuminate our path forward. We are grateful to have you!”

“As we live in the moment, we also build the future”

Rector Aydın continued:

“As we live in the moment, we are also shaping the future. Those who devote their lives to the progress of our country and create value for humanity through their work are always worthy of appreciation. It is the duty of administrators to recognize merit and encourage success. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all my colleagues whose achievements make us proud. With the awareness that investing in people is the most direct path to doing good, I once again express our institutional gratitude to our benefactors who continue to support us. With these thoughts, I wish that our 50th anniversary brings health, peace, and success to the OMU family and our country. I extend my love and respect to you all.”