Today, the Universitat Politècnica de València paid a heartfelt tribute to Professor Manuel López Pellicer, Emeritus Professor of Applied Mathematics and a key figure in the development of both the discipline and the university itself. The ceremony, held at the assembly hall of ETSIAMN—where he carried out much of his teaching—gathered colleagues from the Department of Applied Mathematics, his family, and institutional representatives, including the UPV’s Rector, José E. Capilla, who closed the event with words of recognition.
The ceremony was conducted by Beatriz Ricarte, secretary of ETSIAMN, and began with a speech by the school’s director, Constanza Rubio. She praised López Pellicer’s “brilliant career,” his “commitment to the institution,” and the “affection and respect” he inspires both within and beyond the university. She also emphasized his recognition beyond the local academic sphere.
From the Department of Applied Mathematics, its director Juana Cerdán highlighted the honoree’s immense work ethic and deep ties to the UPV’s history, recalling that he was the first director of the department—one of the university’s largest. “The most remarkable thing,” she stated, “is that everyone remembers him as an excellent person.”
On a more personal note, Professor José Mas moved the audience by reflecting on López Pellicer’s career as both a teacher and a researcher. He emphasized his role as a high school teacher, recalling how he inspired many to pursue careers in mathematics.
Rector Capilla closed the event with heartfelt words of appreciation. “It is an honor to take part in this tribute,” he said. He highlighted López Pellicer’s long-standing institutional involvement, his work ethic, and his sound judgement, as well as his contributions in roles such as department head and University Ombudsman. “Manuel has been tied to the history of this university. I thank him for all he has done for the UPV and for maintaining an admirable desire to continue working.”
López Pellicer expressed his gratitude with emotion. In his speech, he remembered his father and his wife, and looked back on his early years as a high school professor, recalling former students who are now university chairs. He also shared a broad perspective on the development of mathematics in Valencia, referencing historical figures such as Jorge Juan and Manuel Valdivia. He thanked the rector, the organizers, and especially Professors Pepe Mas and Félix Martínez for their support with the scientific journal he helped coordinate. Finally, he addressed the department’s younger members: “Dream, and pass on to your students your passion for science. If you cry at night for not seeing the sun, your tears will keep you from seeing the stars.”
