The Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso officially kicked off its 2026 Academic Year at a ceremony attended by prominent international guests, reflecting the ties and collaborative networks the University maintains with institutions and representatives from around the world.
The event brought together university officials, academics, members of the diplomatic corps, and special guests, including the Italian Ambassador to Chile, Valeria Biagiotti, and the Portuguese Ambassador to Chile, Helena Bicho.
During the ceremony, Rector Nelson Vásquez addressed the university community, marking the start of a new academic year for the university.
During the event, in addition to the Rector’s address and the presentation of the Centennial Medal to a group of professors emeritus, an honorary doctorate (Doctoratus Scientiae et Honoris Causa) was conferred upon Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education, who served as the guest of honor and delivered the 2026 Master Class.
