Helsinki University to unveil portrait of Niemelä on Nov 5

The University of Helsinki will host a sustainability seminar and unveil a portrait of former rector Professor Jari Niemelä in honour of his life's work on 5 November, said the university in a press release.

The event will be held in the main building of the University of Helsinki.

At the sustainability seminar, Niemelä's life's work will be highlighted by former President Tarja Halonen, Secretary General of the Finnish Commission on Sustainable Development Eeva Furman, University Lecturer Johan Kotze and Vice President Tom Böhling.

In connection with the event, there will be a unveiling of Jari Niemelä's portrait. The portrait was painted by artist Markku Järvelin.

Jari Niemelä, Professor of Urban Ecology, served as Rector of the University of Helsinki in 2018–2022 and retired in late spring. He died of a long-term illness at the age of 64 on 5 July 2022.