Mentions of Merit
They unite members within the guild
They have significantly contributed to the guild’s efforts, goals or wellbeing.
They go beyond expectations in their actions for the Urbanum community.
They connect Urbanum to external bodies and communities
JANNE LAXÉN
Our first Mention of Merit goes to someone who has made a truly remarkable impact in Urbanum in a very short time. When this individual stepped into his role in the b&o just nine months ago, none of us could have imagined how quickly and thoroughly he would reshape our operations. With his immaculate attention to detail and fresh ideas, he has set us up for years to come. He is the person who quietly makes sure everything works and is truly a pleasure to work with. Therefore it is our honor to present this award to Janne Laxen.
ALBERT SINGH
Our next Mention of Merit goes to the kind of teammate who notices when someone needs support, who makes sure everyone feels welcome, and who brings kindness and thoughtfulness to everything they do. Over the last two years, their efforts have had a significant impact on many aspects of our community, from leading corporate relations to maintaining our website and ensuring that equality remains a top priority. This individual has a steady presence in our community and an incredible heart that not only positively impacts our work but also the people around them. For the warmth, kindness, and genuine care they bring to Urbanum every day, we are very proud to celebrate Albert Singh.
EERO TAMMIVUORI
Our next Mention of Merit goes to someone who has a remarkable talent for bringing people together. Their enthusiasm, dedication and presence is truly contagious. This individuals has a natural ability to make people feel welcomed and supported.
He has played a crucial role in helping our new students feel at home — first as fuksi officer, and then as a fuksi captain — guiding and supporting our fuksis as they find their place both in Urbanum and the university community. Beyond their responsibilities, they have brought joy, energy, and a sense of fun to everything they do. For the impact and dedication they’ve had on our guild, and the light they bring to every room, we proudly present this award to Eero Tammivuori
Member of the Year
This is a separate category specifically for one person who embodies the joyous attitude of our guild to internal and external communities.
BRUNO GARAIS
The member of the year is awarded to someone who embodies the joyous attitude of our guild to internal and external communities. The recipient of this award always wears a smile; they are approachable and radiate positivity. Right from the beginning of their studies, they showed genuine interest and great enthusiasm for Urbanum, even going as far as to submit heartfelt feedback to the guild during their orientation week. And since then, they have done nothing but thrive in our community. They are active in events, have been a great addition to the fuksi team, and are taking the lead in the overalls project. Thank you for all the work you do, and for making every space you step into a little brighter.
Recognition of Long Service
This is a separate category specifically for the person(s) who have contributed significantly to Urbanum for three (3) or more years
KIERAN HEGARTY
The first recognition of the long service award goes to someone who shows continuous dedication to our guild. They have not only shown commitment year after year but also brought joy, care, and warmth to everyone and everything around them. They are actively involved in association work, and they have been serving in the same position for the last three years. This person is one of the most helpful and dependable people in our guild. They are always willing to lend a hand, always welcoming, and always making sure everyone feels at home both inside and outside the guildroom. Their kind and gentle nature has touched many of us, and for that, we are grateful.
CRISTINA CHULILLA BERROCAL
Our first recognition of long service award goes to someone whose creativity and work have shaped Urbanum over the years. She joined the communications team as a fuksi and has been active ever since, helping to build our guild into what it is today. Much of what we see today – the image of Urbanum on social media and the always on time weekly letters – are thanks to her hard work and creativity.
Beyond her impressive work, she brings kindness and patience to every task she takes on. She supporing and helpful – and ensures that even behind the scenes, the guild runs smoothly and we stay updated. For her years of dedication, creativity, and the lasting impact she has had on Urbanum, it’s our honor to present this award to Cristina Chulilla Berrocal
AINO LEPPINIEMI
It is very hard to imagine Urbanum without this next person. They have played an integral part in shaping what our guild is today. They are supportive and always ready to lend a helping hand when they can. Their presence is warm; they have a contagious laugh and can never fail to put a smile on your face. They have a cheerful demeanour, generously offering guidance and insight to anyone who asks, even though we always joke that sometimes they know, and sometimes they don’t know. For the wisdom and care they bring to Urbanum, we are very delighted to give this award to the I-know of the guild, Aino Leppiniemi.
Tutor of the Year
This award is given out to an active tutor of ours who is easily approachable.
ALBERT SINGH
As a tutor, this person went above and beyond to include new students to our official events, as well as to integrate them to their daily personal life – they cherished the Urbanum spirit in every interaction with our new students. They are someone who is, as was mentioned earlier, here for the long ride. We are proud to present this award to someone who’s there for all of us – Albert Singh.
The Urbie Award
This next award is very special — it’s the very first time we’re giving out the Urbie Award. This award was created to celebrate Urbanum’s five-year milestone and is meant to be given out every 5 years, it honors someone who has been consistently present, active, supportive, and connected to the entire guild over the years.
ROWAN VAN DER KAADEN
From the very beginning, this person has been part of Urbanum, forming friendships that span across all five years. No matter what’s happening, somehow they appear ready to lend a hand, support a friend, or just bring energy and laughter to the moment. This individuals presence makes events more fun, projects run smoother, and our community feel tighter. He has been quietly connecting people and making Urbanum feel like a home for all of us. Which we are forever grateful for. For all of this and more, we are proud to present the very first Urbie Award to Rowan van der Kaaden.
Honorary Members
Our next award is one of the highest honors we can give – and this year, we created it specifically to show our gratitude. It is meant for individuals who have been pillars of support for Urbanum, shaping the guild, guiding students, and dedicating their time, energy, and expertise to our community.
JONATHON TAYLOR | MARKUS LAINE | SALLA JOKELA | ANNA-KAISA VIITANEN | KATI COSBY
These are the people who made Urbanum possible in the first place, by designing the study programme that allowed our guild to exist. Over the years, they have taught us, advised us, and gone out of their way to connect with our students in a meaningful way – always making sure we feel seen and supported. Their countless mentorship has touched students which has left a lasting mark on both our education and the spirit of Urbanum.
We are grateful that we get to be taught and advised by individuals who combine strong expertise with warmth, patience, and commitment. Their efforts have shaped not only our learning, but also the culture and sense of community that makes Urbanum what it is
We are proud to welcome to our guild as honorary members Jonathon Taylor, Markus Laine, Salla Jokela, Anna-Kaisa Viitanen, and Kati Cosby.
Thank you!