Carrying out a PhD is one of the most demanding of intellectual endeavors. It requires many years of dedication and hard work, with no guarantee of success. It has no clear path and is often met with setbacks and revisions. Yet, creating something original and new, pushing the frontiers of knowledge that can make a difference offer unparalleled satisfaction. Being a mentor in this process comes with tremendous responsibility. It is very demanding to guide and nurture students to become independent, capable researchers that fulfill their potential. It is a calling that takes years, much energy, compassion, care, and is a journey of mutual growth for both mentor and mentee. But it is so rewarding!!! And, I find it to be a noble role, one that is much larger than yourself, with positive impact that can last much beyond ourselves, and our scientific contributions.

Imagine now seeing your student getting a top award for their accomplishments. What an amazing thing to experience! Celebrating this award together with the Swiss Arctic community made me realize that, apart from being proud and happy for Vivi, it filled me with hope and optimism for the future. People like Vivi are exactly what we need to address the grand challenge of climate change, and mentor the next generation of scientists and students.

Congratulations Vivi! The breadth and depth of your expertise, research interests, intellect and drive ensure a continued ascent towards unexplored peaks and impactful accomplishments. And, combined with your modest and cheerful personality, constitutes a role model for everyone.

Media credits: 

• Video/Photos: Athanasios Nenes, LAPI members
• Music: A.Marquez (Danón No. 2, excerpt. Orchestra du Yverdon-Les-Bains. piano: Athanasios Nenes)
• Video editing/montage: Athanasios Nenes