Alexander Konovalov: I am proud of being member of Kazan University

On January, 30 was held a solemn event dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the academician Alexander Konovalov.

Alexander Konovalov is a world famous scientist, worker of higher education and public figure. He appears to be a head of world known Kazan School of Chemistry – the cradle of Russian Organic Chemistry – for a long period of time.

He made a lot for development of Russian science and education while serving as: Rector of Kazan State University, Director of Alexander Arbuzov Institute of Organic and Physical Chemistry of Kazan Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Chairman of Panel of Kazan Research Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vice-President of Academy of Sciences of Tatarstan Republic, Vice-President of Mendeleev Russian Chemical Society, Chairman of Research Council for Organic and Organoelemental Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences. 

In recognition of his merits in research work he was awarded various state prizes and orders.

The solemn event was opened by KFU President Myakzyum Salakhov. He addressed the message by President of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov.  KFU President himself congratulated Alexander Konovalov on behalf of KFU staff emphasizing his invaluable contribution occupying position of Kazan University Rector. He focused on efforts applied to develop university facilities, its intellectual potential, strengthening university authority.    

Wide range of guests who attended this event also told about the recognition of scientist`s merits. Among guests were political figures, scientific figures, some of them even came from other cities.

Farid Mukhametshin presented academician the most prestigious Tatarstan Award of Merit for Republic of Tatarstan for valuable contribution in development of scientific priority areas, training of high-qualified specialists, active research and public activity. 

On that day a lot of congratulations, words of encouragement and gratitude as well as awards were expressed and given. Alexander Konovalov was awarded the Golden Medal of Alexander Butlerov Russian Academy of Sciences, Golden Medal of Tatarstan Academy of Sciences For Achievements in Science, Honored Certificate of the Russian Chemical Society and numerous congratulations.

Address of the hero of the day corresponded to the occasion on which gathered the scientific community. Mr. Konovalov talked about the milestones of his scientific career and people who influenced his development as a scientist.

Academician shared the motto that guides him through life: To strive, to seek! Find and do not give up!

Mr.Konovalov, we congratulate you on your anniversary! We wish you courage, sound health and long life for the prosperity of Russian science. Let your motto lead you to new heights!