Diaspora Philanthropy: Dr Zabieliauskas Pledges to Donate €100,000 to Vilnius University Endowment

Marking the celebration of Lithuania’s Restoration of Independence, Dr Raimondas Zabieliauskas, a Canadian Lithuanian Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist, has pledged to donate EUR 100,000 to the Vilnius University (VU) Foundation. A philanthropic initiative was announced at a business community event in Toronto attended by VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas and VU Foundation CEO Justinas Noreika.

The landmark pledge underscores the Lithuanian diaspora's enduring commitment to strengthening higher education and research excellence in Lithuania. Dr Zabieliauskas’ contribution will grow the Foundation’s unrestricted endowment capital, whose investment returns help attract and retain talented early-career researchers at Vilnius University.

“My connection with Vilnius University began through lawyer Algis Pacevičius, who played a key role in guiding all matters related to the Kazlauskas Family’s legacy to the VU Foundation. From our very first interactions, I was genuinely inspired by the VU team’s outstanding professionalism and their sincere, thoughtful commitment to building meaningful relationships with donors. Over the past two years, this connection has evolved into a dynamic and inspiring partnership, grounded in trust, shared values, and a common vision, with the University’s leadership, the Rector, and the wider medical community. I am truly excited that my initial contribution represents not just a single act of support, but the beginning of a meaningful, impactful, and long-lasting partnership with Vilnius University,” says Dr Zabieliauskas.

VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas, patron Dr Raimondas Zabieliauskas and CEO of VU Foundation Justinas Noreika. Photo by Vilnius University.

The unrestricted endowment capital plays a critical role in ensuring long-term financial sustainability and academic excellence. By supporting promising scholars at the beginning of their careers, the Foundation fosters innovation, international competitiveness, and breakthrough research across disciplines.

Dr Zabieliauskas’ pledge is particularly significant as it inaugurates the VU Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Giving Pledge Initiative, an ambitious campaign aiming to secure at least 10 million euros in philanthropic commitments from both current and new donors. The initiative seeks to mobilise alumni, partners, and members of the global Lithuanian community to invest in the University’s future through long-term giving.

A Canadian Lithuanian with a distinguished medical career, Dr Zabieliauskas has built a professional path defined by dedication to education, innovation, and community service. As a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist, he has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving quality of life through science and compassionate care.

Deeply connected to his Lithuanian heritage, Dr Zabieliauskas has consistently supported initiatives that create lasting impact, fostering opportunities for students, advancing research, and empowering future leaders.