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Star of the Month

We have created a distinctive space for our members to shine within the CGU community and to foster synergies with other universities.

An initiative aimed at recognising and highlighting the strengths of the GCU member universities.

MARCH 2026

University of Santiago de Compostela
appoints its first female rector

The historic Galician institution, a founding member of the Compostela Group of Universities, begins a new chapter with the appointment of the first woman to lead the university.

Rosa Crujeiras, elected first female rector in the history of the USC. (Photo: Santi Alvite | USC ©)

The University of Santiago de Compostela (USC) has appointed, for the first time in its history, a woman as rector, marking a milestone in the trajectory of one of Europe’s oldest universities and a founding member of the Compostela Group of Universities (CGU).

This appointment represents a significant step forward in terms of representation and leadership in higher education, in line with the values of equality, diversity and inclusion promoted by both the institution and the CGU. It opens a new chapter expected to reinforce the university’s commitment to academic excellence, international engagement and educational innovation.

Founded in the 15th century, the University of Santiago de Compostela has played a key role in the development of higher education in Spain and Europe. Its membership in the CGU reflects its strong commitment to international cooperation and shared initiatives in education, research and knowledge transfer.

After more than 200 rectors, the USC enters a new era with its first female rector in 531 years, joining the group of European universities led by women. This appointment highlights the importance of advancing towards more inclusive and representative governance models.

KEY POINTS

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First
female rector

USC appoints a woman
for the first time.

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Advancing
representation

Strengthens leadership diversity in higher education.

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New
institutional stage

Reinforces excellence, internationalisation and educational innovation.

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Commitment
to inclusion

Aligned with equality and diversity promoted by the CGU

JANUARY 2026

The University of Vigo
and its active commitment to gender equality

In an increasingly diverse and multicultural academic context, the University of Vigo has developed a specific line of action aimed at promoting gender equality among its international students. Through annual information sessions, the institution creates spaces for dialogue, reflection and shared learning, addressing equality from a practical and participatory perspective.

Through these initiatives, the University of Vigo reinforces its commitment to an inclusive and socially responsible university, integrating equality and respect for diversity as key elements of its international outlook and institutional responsibility.

KEY POINTS

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Equality
as a transversal value

integrated into training activities specifically aimed at international students.

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Participatory
approach

based on interactive activities, case studies, and collective reflection spaces.

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Intercultural
dimension

recognizing and engaging with the diversity of contexts and backgrounds.

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Institutional
commitment

sustained and aligned with the values of inclusion and social justice.

Attendees at the session held in the Assembly Hall of the Faculty of Legal and Labour Sciences.