80 students graduated today from Bifröst University at a formal ceremony. Students graduated from the Faculty of Business, Faculty of Social Science, and Faculty of Law. At the ceremony, Ágúst Einarsson left his position as Rector of the university and was replaced by Magnús Árni Magnússon. Magnús Árni is thoroughly acquainted with Bifröst University, having served as its Vice-Rector from 2001-2006.
In his first speech as Rector, Magnús Árni spoke of the difficult position which universities in Iceland—especially private universities—are faced with. He reminded the audience that the history of Bifröst spans 92 years and that during that time, the university has often been a leader in bringing change to the Icelandic educational system. “This is not popular with those who would prefer to be left undisturbed—supported by state power—as the sole beneficiaries of the limited funds at the disposal of the Icelandic educational system,” said Magnús Árni. He furthermore mentioned that the current situation offered various opportunities for rethinking the cooperation of universities, and that Bifröst should show initiative in working towards closer collaboration while taking care not to compromise the value of university work at Bifröst.
Magnús Árni said that the lessons of the economic collapse should be used in teaching at Bifröst University, and that an emphasis should be placed on strengthening the social awareness of those who work and study at the school. “In that regard, we build on the solid foundation of studies offered at Bifröst. Those studies have always had a focus on society, and have never made the mistake of thinking that society can be viewed as the mathematical model of an engineer where bloated profits rule all, leaving only scorched earth. We reject soulless societal models. At Bifröst, the greatest emphasis is placed on people and their context on earth,” said Magnús Árni in his speech.
Magnús thanked Ágúst Einarsson, former Rector, for his fine work at Bifröst University and the good position in which he leaves the school. “Dr. Ágúst Einarsson has, together with management and staff, strengthened the professional work of the university, performed outstanding work in its finances, and steered it through the greatest difficulties to hit Icelandic society in a long time with the result that Bifröst University is in a strong position financially. This is a significant achievement,” said Magnús in his speech.
About Magnús Árni Magnússon
Professional career:
- Rector of Bifröst University from 5 June, 2010.
- Director of the Social Science Research Institute of the University of Iceland from 2009-2010
- Adjunct at the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Iceland from fall, 2008
- Managing Director of the School of Creative Industries (Skóli skapandi greina) at Keilir, Atlantic Center of Excellence from 2008-2009
- Partner at Capacent from 2006-2008
- Dean of the Faculty of Social Science at Bifröst University from 2005-2006
- Dean of the Faculty of Business at Bifröst University from 2003-2005
- Vice-Rector of the Bifröst School of Business from 2001-2006
Education:
- Doctoral studies in political science at the University of Iceland from 2001
- M.Phil. in European Studies from the University of Cambridge, 2001
- MA in Economics from the University of San Francisco, 1998
- BA in Philosophy from the University of Iceland, 1997