On the occasion of Aarhus University’s 80th birthday, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Frederik was made an honorary alumnus of the university. In connection with the ceremony, the Crown Prince was presented with a sculpture made by Hanne Varming.
The award was presented in the Main Hall, and in his speech Rector Lauritz B. Holm-Nielsen said that:
“I am absolutely delighted to make this first presentation of the Aarhus University honorary alumnus award. The award will be presented each year at the university’s anniversary celebration to a graduate of Aarhus University who has made a unique contribution by generating positive interest in the university. And it is a personal honour to be able to announce today that the first recipient of the Aarhus University honorary alumnus award is His Royal Highness Crown Prince Frederik.”
“The Crown Prince has a Master’s degree in Political Science from Aarhus University, and by studying here he was also following in the footsteps of Her Majesty Queen Margrethe. The Crown Prince made an energetic and enthusiastic contribution to the unique study environment at the university and Århus as a whole. And by acquiring a degree in political science he was also preparing himself to deal with the important tasks that he already performs for Denmark.”
“It was a great privilege for Aarhus University to be the framework of the Crown Prince’s academic education, and we are delighted to present you with our very first honorary alumnus award”, said the rector.
In February 1995 the Crown Prince was presented with his examination certificate by the then rector Henning Lehmann, who praised him not only for completing the course within the standard period of study, but also for studying with impressive precision and concentration.

Press photo of Rector Lauritz B. Holm-Nielsen and H.R.H. the Crown Prince (2.15 Mb)
Photo: Søren Kjeldgaard/ AU-foto

Further information:

Rector Lauritz B. Holm-Nielsen (8942 1141 – 2338 2126) or press manager Anders Correll (8942 2331 - 2899 2235).

12. september 2008
Anders Correll
Pressechef, rektoratet
ac@adm.au.dk