The Lund University Administrative Prize is awarded annually for outstanding administrative efforts of an innovative nature that have contributed to the University’s development, or for extraordinary service and efficiency. With this award, the University Management wishes to recognise extraordinary contributions in administration throughout the University.
The prize will be presented at the University’s annual academic ceremony on 23 January 2026. The prize winners receive a diploma and SEK 15,000 for their own professional development.
The Ravensbrück Archive is a unique historical collection that primarily recounts the experiences of women in the Ravensbrück concentration camp during the Second World War. The archive includes witness statements, letters, photographs, personal effects and administrative documents that together provide a multifaceted depiction of life in the camp and the human strength needed for survival.
Lund University’s Administrative Prize 2025 is awarded to:
Håkan Håkansson
Digitalisation coordinator, Lund University Library
What are you going to do with the prize money?
“Oh, I haven’t really had time to digest this yet, but perhaps a few study trips to Holocaust museums around Europe that work on similar material.”
Tomasz Lesniak
Library assistant, Lund University Library.
What are you going to do with the prize money?
“I’m afraid I haven’t had time to give it much thought, but I imagine a study trip is on the cards.”
Justification
The Ravensbrück Archive is an example of how administrative work, historical documentation, archival development work and ethical diligence can work together to preserve a vulnerable but vital memory – a memory that has now been granted UNESCO Memory of the World status, thanks to the determined efforts of passionate individuals within the University.
These driving spirits, Håkan Håkansson and Tomasz Lesniak, are obvious candidates for the Administrative Prize. Their extraordinary administrative efforts, vision, perseverance and forward thinking have contributed to the University’s development in a way that is both unique and enduring. Their work has not merely improved internal structures – it has also put the University on the map internationally, through recognition on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.
In their everyday work, Håkansson and Lesniak stand out because of their accessibility, their solution-focused approach and their capacity to collaborate. They are not simply administrators – they are facilitators. Colleagues mention their progressive spirit, which sees obstacles removed and a great willingness to show and talk about the archive. Many illustrious visitors, including ambassadors, have met Håkansson and Lesniak. Those visitors have been deeply impressed by the tales and sometimes the visit to the University Library is the only thing they remember of their stay.
With this nomination, Lund University wishes to highlight administrative work that is innovative, strategic and profoundly human – and has left its indelible mark on the University’s history and future.
Read more: Lund University’s annual academic ceremony 2026 – 23 January (in Swedish).