The inauguration ceremony took place in the assembly hall of the Rectorate building. Gandía urged his collaborators to firmly defend the key role that, as a public university, they have in ensuring a better present and future for the institution.
“"A future in which equal opportunities are guaranteed and access to higher education does not depend on economic conditions, where students are at the center of the educational experience and which allows us to train not only professionals but also citizens with judgment, critical spirit, analytical capacity, and social responsibility. In a context of disinformation, polarization, and rapid changes, this function is more important than ever."
The new rector emphasized the need to work with rigor and commitment, reminding everyone that the institution stands above any individual. He added that, with respect, generosity, and solidarity, they will strive for the university to continue advancing, following the path of previous rectoral teams.
Gandía has begun this new stage with his team, acknowledging that it will not be without difficulties, but that it must be faced with confidence, enthusiasm, and responsibility. He highlighted his team's proven experience and critical spirit to meet the generated expectations.
Furthermore, he thanked the outgoing team, especially his predecessor, Mavi Mestre, for her contribution to keeping the institution on the path of being a quality public university serving the society.
Attendees at the event included representatives from the Generalitat, such as the autonomous secretary for Universities, Maria Esther Gómez; the general director of Universities, José Antonio Pérez; and the general director of Science and Innovation, Rafael Sebastián. Also present were Zulima Pérez, government commissioner for Dana; the president of the University Social Council, Ángela Pérez; former rectors of the UV Esteban Morcillo and Francisco Tomás, and various deans from the faculties.
Gandía's new team exceeds gender parity, with 61.5% women. The Governing Council consists of eight women and five men: María José Aradilla (general secretary), Ricardo Juan (vice-rector for Academic Planning and Faculty), Isabel Fariñas (vice-rector for Research and Scientific Policy), José María Montiel (vice-rector for Innovation and Transfer), Javier Roca (vice-rector for Studies and Quality), Rosa María Bo (vice-rector for Educational Transformation, Continuing Education, and Professional Projection), Emilia Ferrer (vice-rector for Internationalization, Cooperation, and Multilingualism), Amelia Mañá (vice-rector for Equality, Diversity, and Well-being), Albert Moncusí (vice-rector for Culture, Sports, and Social Engagement), Inmaculada Coma (vice-rector for Digital Transformation), Carlos López (vice-rector for Communication, Participation, and Transparency), Lucía Sanus (vice-rector for Infrastructure and Sustainability), and Rosa María Yagüe (vice-rector for Economy and Planning).
