On October 15th - 17th, the Geneva University of Art and Design (HEAD – Genève, Haute école d'art et de design) hosted the ELIA Leadership symposium 2025: The Power of Many - one of the most important events among the leading European higher education institutions in the arts, bringing together leaders of art academies from various countries.
Vilnius Academy of Arts was represented at the symposium by the Rector, prof. Ieva Skauronė and Vice-Rector for Art and Research, dr. Marius Iršėnas.
This year’s theme, "The Power of Many", invited participants to reflect on collective responsibility, collaboration, empathy, and action: how art institutions can not only shape policies but also implement them in real academic, social, and cultural contexts.
Discussions covered a wide range of topics — from fundraising and collaboration in war-affected regions to student engagement, as well as wellbeing and health in higher education.
The event brought together art and education leaders from across Europe to explore how art universities can act collectively and remain resilient in these turbulent times of change.
This year’s symposium served as a reminder that the true foundation of leadership lies in community, empathy, and action.
