A Maribor resident invited to one of the most prestigious international organizations

A professor from Maribor has been invited to join one of the world's most prestigious international organizations. Prof. Dr. Ludvik Toplak, rector of Alma Mater Europaea University, has become a member of the Club of Rome, known as the Roman Club. The organization brings together leading scientists, business leaders, political figures, and other notable individuals from around the globe who are focused on addressing key challenges facing humanity’s future. Membership in the Roman Club is by invitation only and represents recognition of individuals whose work and contributions have significantly influenced their fields. The Roman Club highlighted Prof. Dr. Toplak’s more than four decades of experience in law, politics, and higher education upon his acceptance into the organization. His career has been built as a university professor and lawyer, while he has held numerous important public and academic roles. Among these positions were serving as president of the first democratically elected parliament of the Republic of Slovenia, rector of the University of Maribor, and ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the United Nations headquarters. In 2008, he founded Alma Mater Europaea, European Center Maribor, and since 2024, he has served as rector of Alma Mater Europaea University. His membership in the Roman Club marks a new significant international acknowledgment of his long-term academic, professional, and social engagement, as well as his efforts to connect knowledge, education, and responsibility toward future generations. Toplak’s inclusion in the Roman Club further underscores his active involvement in other international academic organizations. He is also a member of the World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS), where he was elected to the board of directors this year, and the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. His participation in these global academic and intellectual networks strengthens the international presence of Alma Mater Europaea University. Toplak’s journey through academia and public service began with his role as a university professor and legal expert. Over time, he took on several critical public and academic functions, including heading the first democratically elected parliament in Slovenia. This experience laid the foundation for his later leadership roles in higher education, such as rector of the University of Maribor and subsequently rector of Alma Mater Europaea University. His establishment of Alma Mater Europaea, European Center Maribor in 2008 marked a pivotal moment in his career, reflecting his vision for creating an institution dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary research and education. Since becoming its rector in 2024, he has continued to drive forward initiatives aimed at connecting academic excellence with societal responsibility. The Roman Club, which has existed since the mid-20th century, is renowned for its focus on global issues such as environmental sustainability, economic inequality, and technological advancement. Its members include Nobel laureates, heads of state, and influential thinkers who contribute to shaping policy and thought leadership on pressing global matters. Toplak’s addition to the club reflects not only his personal achievements but also the growing influence of Slovenian institutions on the international stage. His involvement in multiple high-profile academic and political roles has positioned him as a key figure in bridging the gap between scholarly research and practical governance. The Roman Club emphasized that Toplak’s extensive background in law, politics, and education aligns with the organization’s mission to address complex global challenges. His appointment signals a commitment to leveraging academic expertise for the benefit of society and future generations. Toplak’s current status includes being part of the governing body of WAAS, which focuses on promoting collaboration between science, art, and humanities to solve global problems. His dual membership in both the Roman Club and WAAS highlights his dedication to multidisciplinary approaches in tackling contemporary issues. Alma Mater Europaea University has benefited from Toplak’s leadership, gaining increased visibility and partnerships with international institutions. His recent appointments underscore the university’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative research and educational programs. Toplak continues to engage actively in academic and policy discussions, contributing insights drawn from his diverse experiences in law, education, and diplomacy. His ongoing work reinforces the importance of integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world applications to foster sustainable development and global cooperation.