During a ceremony held in the courtyard of Frederick University on November 10, we celebrated "Founder’s Day,” in memory of Michael Frederickou, founder of both Frederick University and the Frederick Institute of Technology.

Many members of the university community honored the day with their presence, among them the University's Rector, members of the academic and administrative staff, friends of the University and of Michael Frederickou. Mr Marinos Moushiouttas, Member of the House of Representatives, addressed the event in his capacity as a personal friend of Michael Frederickou and as President of the sports club "Achilleas Kaimakliou", which M. Frederickou had supported in many ways over the years.

The purpose of Founder’s Day is to honor the legacy of a man who generously offered opportunities to thousands of young people to make their dreams come true.

In her address, Ms. Natassa Frederickou, President of the University Council, stated:

“Michael Frederickou was a dynamic personality. His principles, values, and beliefs were non-negotiable. Yet he managed to inspire those around him, to share his vision, to transform them and make them his companions — with him as their leader and conductor. He viewed education as an act of care, transformation, responsibility, and social awareness. This philosophy is his most precious legacy. His advice to his colleagues was always to stay close to the students. He always believed in the power of education and of the educator.”

Mr. Moushiouttas praised the character and work of Michael Frederickou, as well as the University’s broader contribution to society, noting that:

“The late Michael Frederickou, having deep faith in young people, offered opportunities to thousands to make their dreams a reality. His values and principles - deeply humanistic, with respect for the individual and belief in the collective good - continue to guide the University. Michael Frederickou taught us that education is power. That faith in people and love for one’s homeland can change lives. And this faith and love, continue to inspire and guide Frederick University today.”

Each year on this day, a tree is symbolically planted at Frederick University, dedicated to the new academic year.

“The tree of each year grows and develops along with our university community. Its roots, which provide nourishment, strength, and stability, represent the principles and values left to us by Michael Frederickou — values that keep us united. Its branches represent the growth of every member of our community,” said Ms. Frederickou.

Ms. Frederickou also referred to the University’s initiatives in memory of its founder, such as the full scholarships bearing his name and the establishment of the annual Michael Frederickou Awards. She also mentioned the celebratory event marking the University’s 60th anniversary, which will take place on February 18, 2026.

In addition to the traditional tree planting, this year’s Founder’s Day included the unveiling of a sculpture, designed and created by students as part of the celebrations for Frederick University’s 60 years.

The sculpture, titled Out of the Box, symbolizes the power of education to open new horizons, inspire, broaden thinking, and cultivate personal, creative, and academic growth. It is the result of collaboration between students of the Visual Communication program at Frederick University and the Mechanical Installations Technician program at the Frederick Institute of Technology.

Under the guidance of Hourig Torosian and Simos Markitanis, members of the faculty at the above programs respectively, students undertook this project during the courses Image Making Processes and Special Welding Techniques, to mark the University’s 60th anniversary. Through the project, the students explored the role of education in depth. Each Visual Communication student proposed a design for the sculpture; the work of Rodothea Philippou was selected, and the sculpture was subsequently constructed by students from the Mechanical Installations Technician – Welding program.