GIU Awards Honorary Doctorate to Michaela Liepold

Graham International University (GIU) has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Hon. Ph.D.) in Nursing Science to Austrian nurse, researcher and caregiver Michaela Liepold. On this special day, the University also extends heartfelt wishes to Michaela as she celebrates her birthday.

The honorary award recognizes Liepold’s dedication to nursing, her impactful research on grief and loss, and her years of compassionate caregiving across clinical and community settings. She earned the title Magistra after completing studies in Nursing Science at the University of Vienna, where her diploma thesis — a comprehensive work on “Dying, Death, Loss, and Grief in Modern Society — Parental Grief in the Context of the Death of a Child” — showcased her deep commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.

GIU emphasized her academic achievements, extensive professional experience, and volunteer contributions, including internships in Vienna hospitals, support for families and youth, and counselling work with the Austrian state-recognized organization Verein Chronisch Krank Österreich. These efforts, combined with further training in grief counselling, pharmacology, and chronic illness care, highlight her lifelong service to others.

In his nomination statement, Alexander Kaiser commended Michaela’s “unwavering commitment to the field of nursing and support for individuals facing chronic illness,” as well as her resilience in overcoming personal health challenges.

GIU congratulates Michaela Liepold on receiving her honorary doctorate in Nursing Science and warmly wishes her a happy birthday, along with good health and well-being.