Series about the People of FSS
We continue with our popular section on people at the Faculty of Social Sciences. This time, the member of the faculty's leadership we've asked seven questions is Jitka Navrátilová, the Chair of the Academic Section of the Academic Senate at FSS.
“What would you like to see for the FSS in the next four years?
Jitka Navrátilová, the Chair of the Academic Section of the Academic Senate at FSS
My wish for our faculty, not only for the next few years, is that it becomes a symbol of an inspiring environment where everyone has the space to fully realize their potential. I also wish for it to significantly strengthen its third role – that is, active engagement in the service to society – and for ongoing research and the development of new approaches in the social sciences to bring concrete solutions to today’s social issues.”
What does your ideal morning look like?
My ideal morning actually starts the night before – a good night's sleep sets me up for a great morning. The best mornings are those when I'm the first to wake up in the quiet, still-dimly lit apartment. For me, it's the perfect time to immerse myself into meditation and calm. With a cup of good tea, I savor the peaceful atmosphere and feel grateful for the new day, for the chance to be healthy and ready to dive into the daily rush that’s about to begin – with the everyday battle for the bathroom.
What book have you read lately?
It's a pity the question isn’t what books you have on your bedside table, because I have quite a few 😊. Among the books I choose to read, I always pick something related to leadership – currently The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss – as well as books that nurture my spirit and soul, especially those about strong women. Right now, it’s Hebrew Women by Jan Fingerland and books about Teresa of Ávila, the most significant reformer of the 16th century. For visual delight and to cultivate my sense of beauty, I like to leaf through books on interior design, which I truly love.
What is your favorite place at the faculty?
My favorite place is my office, where I have my base – and it’s not just any office. It’s located on the corner of the top floor, with windows on two sides, which gives me a stunning view. On one side, I see the steeple of the Red Church, and on the other, Špilberk Castle and its gardens. I have to admit, that more than one visitor has been unable to resist snapping a beautiful photo from my office. For me, it’s not only a workspace and a safe haven that I share with two great colleagues, but also a place where you can appreciate the beauty of Brno from a completely different perspective.
What has surprised you the most in the last six months?
I've spent most of the last six months on sabbatical, during which I had the opportunity to study at The Catholic University of America in Rome. I was pleasantly surprised by the respect shown not only there but also at other institutions toward our faculty. I realized that the name of our faculty and university is a valuable key for opening up interest from other significant institutions to collaborate with us.
What do you think is the most important thing for FSS in the coming year?
Each of us has our own view of what's the most important thing. I am convinced that the faculty's greatest treasure is its people, who bear the burden of everyday tasks and who are also behind the faculty's successes. Therefore, I consider it most important that even in hectic working conditions, each of us should seek a balance between high performance and taking care of our own health and personal life. I see this as one of the key challenges not only for each of us but also for the faculty leadership, which should create conditions that make this kind of work-life balance possible.
Which point in the strategic plan are you most looking forward to implementing?
There are several areas in the strategic plan that personally affect me and whose fulfillment brings me great joy. However, what deeply touches my heart is the development of the university's role in society. I feel that this brings us back to the very roots of universities, which played a fundamental role in shaping society and creating public discourse. Sometimes it's difficult to find a balance between the pursuit of scientific achievements and ensuring that science responds to the issues we are actually facing as a society. The social role of universities returns us to their original mission when universities had a strong sense of social responsibility. I greatly appreciate that the strategic plan carries this message - that our faculty wants to contribute to solving problems we face as a community, city, nation, and globally.
