The University conferred its first ever ‘Honorary Award for Outstanding Philanthropic Achievements’ at the 2024 Donor Appreciation Evening. This award honours a donor who demonstrated outstanding commitment to the University through philanthropy.
The first ever recipient is Mr. Norbert Friob, an important figure in Luxembourg and one of the University’s earliest and most dedicated donors. He has always been inspired to give back. Along with members of Rotary clubs of Luxembourg, he created in 2013 the Luxembourgish edition of ‘Espoir en tête’, a project that organises film premieres and donates the proceeds from ticket sales to brain research.
Advancing both science and entrepreneurship
Mr. Friob has also donated generously to the University via his own private foundation that he created with his sons, ‘Fondation Norbert Friob et Fils under the aegis of the Fondation de Luxembourg’. Apart from funds for biomedical research at the University, the foundation has also supported the activities of the University of Luxembourg Incubator and Entrepreneurship Programme.
“I am honoured to receive this award”, said Mr. Friob. “It is a privilege to see the University of Luxembourg evolve over the years, and to have been able to play a part in its development is particularly gratifying. I am delighted to be part of this exceptional community that continues to shape the future of Luxembourg.”
Upon unveiling the recipient, Philippe Lamesch, Head of Office of Fundraising, remarked: “The University is very grateful for Mr. Friob’s loyal commitment over the years. His contributions have had a profound impact, particularly in advancing research on brain diseases and fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs. This award recognises not only Mr. Friob’s extraordinary generosity but also his enduring dedication to driving innovation and serving the country.”
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Norbert Friob, friends and family with the University fundraising team, Dr Lisa Smits (third from left) and Dr Philippe Lamesch (fourth from right).
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Speech by University rector Prof. Jens Kreisel.
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The donor event ceremony.
The evening also featured an overview about the philanthropic activities at the University, as well as a talk on hydrogen and alternative energy by Prof. Bradley Ladewig of the Paul Wurth Chair of Energy Process Engineering.