On July 16, 2025, a ceremonial event took place in the Mendel Greenhouse and monastic gardens to unveil a monument dedicated to Associate Professor Jan Kříženecký—a scientist, educator, and prominent promoter of Mendel’s legacy—who was also closely connected with the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University.
How did the unveiling ceremony take place?
The unveiling ceremony took place at 5:30 p.m. with the attendance of a broad academic and professional audience. The opening remarks and the ceremonial act itself were led by Pavel Lízal, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University, who in his speech praised not only Jaroslav Kříženecký’s lifelong scientific contributions but also his personal qualities.
Here is the English translation:In his speech, Vice-Dean Lízal noted, among other things:
“We remember Associate Professor Jaroslav Kříženecký as a person who left an indelible mark not only on our Faculty of Science and Masaryk University, but also on Czech and world science. His life was shaped not only by scientific achievements, but also by his courageous stance during the difficult times of Nazi and communist persecution.”
At the unveiling ceremony, P. Wit Marciniec, OSA, Prior of the Abbey of Stará Brno of the Order of St. Augustine, also spoke and highlighted the importance of cooperation between the scientific and spiritual traditions of the monastery in preserving the legacy of figures such as Associate Professor Jaroslav Kříženecký.
Geneticist Jaroslav Kříženecký and His Work at Our Faculty
Associate Professor Kříženecký was a respected biologist, zoologist, and geneticist, the author of more than 650 scientific publications, an inspiring university lecturer, and the founder of the Mendel Museum in Brno.
He worked at the Faculty of Science of Masaryk University, where from 1945 to 1948 he lectured on genetics and was entrusted with establishing the Department of Genetics, the Mendel Library, and a museum. For known reasons, however, these projects were never realized. Nevertheless, he succeeded in founding the Mendelianum—the Mendel Museum in Brno. He also worked at the University of Agriculture in Brno.
His scientific and ethical principles in the turbulent 20th century were also highlighted by his son, Ing. Jaroslav Kříženecký Jr., who followed with a lecture on his father's life.
Certainly! Here is the English translation:Associate Professor Kříženecký was not only an eminent scientist, but also an active participant in the anti-Nazi resistance and an unwavering advocate for scientific truth during the difficult times of the 1950s. His life story thus serves as an inspiration to all who strive for progress, freedom of science, and the defense of truth regardless of adverse circumstances.
As Vice-Dean Lízal emphasized in his speech:
“Supporting the creation of the commemorative plaque is for us not only an expression of respect for a significant figure in our history, but also a confirmation of our commitment to share and further develop the scientific legacy of Associate Professor Kříženecký. His work and values are firmly embedded in our teaching, research, and everyday life at Masaryk University.”
Who deserves thanks for the creation of the commemorative site?
Thanks for the creation of the commemorative site went not only to the Kříženecký family, especially to his son Ing. Jaroslav Kříženecký Jr., but also to the Augustinian Abbey, the Mendel Museum, and everyone who participated in its preparation.
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