Lithuanian scientists and cultural figures to receive Petkevičaitė-Bitė commemorative medals

A ceremony in Panevėžys will honour 16 recipients of the Gabrielė Petkevičaitė-Bitė memorial medal “Serve Lithuania” for their contributions to science, culture, and civic engagement, state news agency ELTA reports.

The awards recognise achievements in philanthropy, youth empowerment, democratic values, and volunteerism. Among this year’s laureates are artist Sandra Atkočiūtė, educator Vitalija Daugėlienė, collector Ramutis Petniūnas, and writer Kotryna Zilinskienė, all cited for their support of young creators. Former foreign minister Petras Vaitiekūnas, researcher Rimantas Gorys, and museum specialist Mečislovas Raštikis will be honoured for upholding parliamentary traditions and civic participation.

Scout leader Ieva Brogienė, poet Marius Burokas, and teacher Laima Žemaitienė are recognised for promoting volunteer culture, while museum curator Aušra Janušonytė, pilot instructor Stasys Kasparavičius, and poet Gyčys Norvilas receive awards for publicist work strengthening national identity and spiritual values.

Established by the Seimas, the medal commemorates Gabrielė Petkevičaitė-Bitė’s legacy and encourages efforts that foster civic responsibility, national consciousness, and cultural awareness. A five-year commission evaluates nominations and selects recipients based on these criteria.