On 28 May 2015, Herzen University hosted Vladimir Chizhov, a veteran  diplomat and Permanent Representative of Russia at the European Union. The meeting with the SCIT students was preceded by a significant event: Vladimir Chizhov was awarded the Herzen University medal “In Recognition of the Services in Education and Science” for his substantial contribution in the development of international cooperation between Herzen University and the European Union and for the active participation in establishing Saint Petersburg School of Conference Interpreting and Translation.

Vladimir Chizhov told the students about the relations between Russia and the European Union, about economic partnerships, and the work of the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation at the European Union. Vladimir Chizhov also took questions from the students and wished them professional success. «I am happy to be SCIT’s envoy in the Russian MFA, and I am looking forward to welcoming you as colleagues», said Vladimir Chizhov.