Katerina Kalitko Reflects on Her Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Years, Vyacheslav Bryukhovetsky’s Impact, and the Orange Revolution

“Bryukh Was a Creative Force”: Katerina Kalitko Shares Memories of Vyacheslav Bryukhovetsky’s Influence

According to Radiotrek — Світ: Katerina Kalitko, a prominent contemporary Ukrainian poet, writer, and translator, fondly recalls her time as a student at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, highlighting the pivotal role played by the university’s founding rector, Vyacheslav Bryukhovetsky. She emphasizes his profound impact on the academic community and his active engagement in Ukraine’s social and political developments.

Between 1999 and 2005, Kalitko pursued studies in political science and journalism at Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. Bryukhovetsky, who served as the institution’s first rector and later its president, left an indelible mark on the university’s history. One notable anecdote she shares illustrates his determination: Bryukhovetsky won a chess game against Admiral Korovin, then head of a military academy, securing a lecture hall for Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. This episode became emblematic of his strategic mindset and commitment to advancing the university’s interests.

The Legacy of Vyacheslav Bryukhovetsky

Bryukhovetsky was also a founding member of the People’s Movement of Ukraine (Narodny Rukh) in 1989 and took part in the “First of December” initiative group. In 2007, he was honored with the title Hero of Ukraine, recognizing his significant contributions to the nation’s progress. Kalitko recalls how, during the Orange Revolution, classes were suspended at Kyiv-Mohyla, and the university marched as a united column from Podil to Maidan, led by Bryukhovetsky himself.

“I remember during the Orange Revolution when Kyiv-Mohyla stopped classes and joined the university procession from Podil to Maidan. Bryukh was at the front, and it filled me with pride,” Kalitko said.

She also recalls Bryukhovetsky’s challenge to students:

“Do you still want to study here? Then switch to your university’s language.”

This call was more than a simple directive; it embodied the spirited atmosphere fostered under his leadership. Kalitko describes Bryukhovetsky as a true demiurge who shaped and sustained a culture of engagement and patriotism among students.

Kalitko’s reflections on Bryukhovetsky highlight crucial aspects of Ukrainian education and cultural life, showcasing universities as hubs not only for learning but also for nurturing civic responsibility and national pride. His influence in shaping a new generation of intellectuals prepared to actively participate in society remains relevant today, as education continues to play a key role in strengthening democratic values in Ukraine.

As Katerina Kalitko reflects on her formative years at Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and the influence of Vyacheslav Bryukhovetsky, it is essential to remember the profound legacy he leaves behind. His passing marks the end of an era for the academy and the nation, as he played a crucial role in shaping modern Ukraine. To learn more about Bryukhovetsky's impactful life and contributions, visit this article on his recent passing: the first president of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and a national hero.