Student of the Year 2026: BSPU Honors Student Leaders and Activists

On October 20, 2026, the “Student of the Year 2026” conference took place at Berdiansk State Pedagogical University (BSPU). The event served as the culmination of the competition of the same name and was a vibrant celebration of the initiative, talent, and leadership demonstrated by the university’s youth.

The competition encompassed a wide range of areas — from academic and scientific success to creative endeavors, volunteering, civic engagement, and student self-governance. This broad scope highlighted the multifaceted achievements of students who, through their daily efforts, develop and strengthen life at BSPU.

Based on the selection process, the winners in the various categories are:

• “Civic Activist Student of the Year” – Veronika Horianina, a student of the Faculty of Psychological-Pedagogical Education and Arts;
• “Student Researcher of the Year” – Anastasiia But, a student of the Faculty of Psychological-Pedagogical Education and Arts;
• “Student Performer of the Year” – Alina Shyp, a student of the Faculty of Physical Culture, Sports, and Human Health;
• “Student Leader in Self-Governance of the Year” – Amaliia Horbunova, a student of the Faculty of Preschool, Special, and Social Education;
• “Student Athlete of the Year” – Sofiia Dmukhailo, a student of the Faculty of Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Technological Education.  “Student Volunteer of the Year” – Anton Halitsyn, a student of the Faculty of Psychological and Pedagogical Education and Arts;
• “Student Patriot of the Year” – Tetiana Turii, a student of the Faculty of Preschool, Special, and Social Education;
• “Student Defender of the Year” – Oleksandr Lychkovskyi, a student of the Faculty of Preschool, Special, and Social Education;
• “Student Journalist of the Year” – Kateryna Bukhtiiarova, a student of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities;
• “Student Family of the Year” – Regina Holkina and Andrii Holkin, students of the Faculty of Preschool, Special, and Social Education.

The top award in the “Student of the Year 2026” category went to Amaliia Horbunova, a student of the Faculty of Preschool, Special, and Social Education. This recognition is a well-deserved culmination of her high achievements, energy, and significant personal contribution to the development of the university community.

Valeriia Mordvinova, Head of the Student Council at BSPU, addressed the participants and winners. She noted the high level of student engagement and emphasized the importance of their contribution to building the university community: “It is precisely the students’ initiative, their readiness to join new projects, and their ability to generate bold ideas that shape a truly vibrant and modern student life.” During the conference, Amaliia Horbunova expressed sincere gratitude to her lecturers, like-minded peers, and her university for their support and the boundless opportunities for self-realization. Such moments underscore, once again, the significance of an academic community that helps young people unlock their potential, bring their ideas to life, and reach new heights.

The “Student of the Year” competition has once again demonstrated that student life at BSPU is much more than just academics. It is a space for scientific discovery, active civic engagement, and strong, supportive friendships.

Daryna Smyshliaieva, 2nd-year student, Major C7 “Journalism”