This year, the Alumni Distinguished 2025 award was given ex aequo to Angélica Anglés Estellés, senior researcher at the Icelandic Space Agency and collaborator with the European Space Agency, and Alfredo Quijano Rubio, PhD in Biotechnology and founder of two biomedical companies in Seattle focused on cancer treatments.
During his speech, the rector highlighted that the alumni community, with more than 80,000 members worldwide, "reflects the identity and international projection of the university," and that the cases of Angélica and Alfredo "are especially inspiring, showing the real impact of the education received at UPV." He emphasized that the university not only provides excellent academic knowledge but also promotes extracurricular activities, volunteering, and social responsibility, forming students in a comprehensive way.
José Capilla also pointed out current challenges in higher education, such as artificial intelligence, and noted that "collaboration with civil society, companies, and other institutions is key to advancing innovation and strengthening trust."
He also highlighted programs such as Generació Espontània, which encourage practical learning, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, noting that "it not only represents the success of our teams but also what they learn in the process, such as cooperating, solving problems, and innovating."
The gala concluded with a talk by science communicator Patri Psicóloga, consolidating an event that strengthens the ties between UPV and its global community of alumni.