On 6 December when Finland celebrates independence, President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinistö confers decorations upon citizens who have distinguished themselves in the service of Finland.
At the University of Eastern Finland, the decoration Knight First Class of the Order of the White Rose of Finland was conferred upon Professor Päivi Atjonen, Professor Sirpa Hartikainen, Professor Emeritus Erkki Kontkanen and Professor Heli Peltola.
The decoration Knight of the Order of the Lion of Finland was conferred upon Director Raija Elsinen.
The decoration Cross of Merit of the Order of the White Rose of Finland was conferred upon Human Resources Specialist Minna Kuosmanen, Laboratory Supervisor Jari Nissinen and Coordinator Raija Pappila.
The decoration Cross of Merit of the Order of the Lion of Finland was conferred upon Human Resources Specialist Tarja Vauhkonen.