Night-time Letter Writing: A Tradition That Connects and Inspires
From Wrocław to Darmstadt, Lisbon, and Graz, the Nighttime Letter Writing initiative has united universities under a common goal: fostering empathy, a sense of community, and inclusivity.
The Night-time Letter Writing initiative, first introduced at Wrocław Tech in 2017, has become a beacon of community and solidarity across Europe. This event, where participants write heartfelt letters by hand rather than typing them on a computer, unites universities under a shared mission of empathy and inclusion.
The Night-time Letter Writing initiative, launched in 2017 at Wrocław Tech, has grown into a cherished tradition uniting universities across Europe. Participants gather to handwrite letters that support various charitable causes, fostering empathy, inclusion, and community spirit. This year’s events, hosted by Wrocław, Darmstadt, Lisbon, and Graz, focused on supporting students with disabilities, financial needs, and promoting well-being. With over 5,000 letters written since its inception, the initiative highlights the power of collective action and has become a beacon of solidarity and goodwill within the academic community.
Wrocław: Where It All Began
On November 19, 2024, Wrocław Tech hosted the 8th edition of the Night-time Letter Writing event. Almost 200 participants gathered to write letters requesting support for scholarships for students with disabilities and special needs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and achievements in science, sports, and social engagement. Special guests included members of the Rapid Troopers Science Club, who presented an innovative prosthetic hand grip.
Rector Prof. Arkadiusz Wójs expressed his gratitude:
"I am deeply moved to be here once again and to see familiar faces from previous editions as well as new participants joining us. It warms my heart to see that at Wrocław Tech, we look around with kindness and recognize those in need of our help and support. For this, I thank you all sincerely."
Prof. Katarzyna Jach, the university’s plenipotentiary for accessibility, remarked:
"This is the warmest and most moving activity at our university. I am thrilled to see such a broad and diverse group of people joining the letter-writing effort each year. It brings our community together around a truly good idea."
The first letter-writing marathon was organized at Wrocław in 2017. Since then, over 5,000 letters have been written, raising an impressive sum of money. The idea also resonated with other Unite! communities. In 2023, during the Unite!4Future competition, the initiative was introduced to other universities within the network, spreading goodwill across Europe. And it worked! Similar events have since been organized at other universities in the alliance.
Darmstadt: Creativity and Connection
At TU Darmstadt, the Night-time Letter Writing event took place on November 15, 2024, in the historic old main building. Organized by International Student Services and supported by the SchreibCenter and the Center for Educational Development and Technology, the evening emphasized reflection and personal connection. Guided by Dr. Vanessa Geuen and Dipl.-Päd. Diana Seyfarth, participants explored creative writing through prompts and exercises, fostering a sense of belonging within the diverse university community.
Lisbon: A Gesture of Solidarity
The University of Lisbon hosted its edition on November 21, 2024. Participants wrote letters aimed at raising funds for the Alumni Solidário Scholarships, which support first-cycle students with financial needs and academic merit. Former students and external companies joined the event, underlining its solidarity. The President of the ULisboa Alumni Association, Professor Amélia Loução, received the letters in a symbolic ceremony, showcasing the power of community action.
Graz: Well-being and Generosity
TU Graz joined the movement on November 13, 2024, hosting an event centered on student and employee well-being. Alongside writing letters for charitable causes, participants explored the university’s health services and enjoyed refreshments, small thank-you gifts, and a raffle.
A Growing Legacy
Night-time Letter Writing is an initiative that supports sustainability goals as part of the university's social responsibility. Wrocław Tech researchers (Pactwa et al., 2024), have highlighted its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)