Corvinus Alumnus Receives Prestigious Award from Columbia University

According to Columbia University’s official statement, Ravasz—who earned his Master’s degree in Sociology there in 2014—has used his academic expertise to drive long-term improvements in the lives of minority communities in Slovakia and across Central Europe. Holding degrees in sociology, political science, and economics, he studied at Corvinus University of Budapest prior to completing his graduate studies at Columbia. 

Born in Dunajská Streda and currently living in Slovakia, Ravasz has been involved in several major reforms. These include the introduction of compulsory preschool education, the establishment of the Minority Cultural Fund, and the development of a new system of school districts. Between 2016 and 2020, he served as the Slovak Government’s Plenipotentiary for Roma Communities, after which he continued his work as an advisor to government stakeholders. His main research and policy areas include inclusion, minority policy, and regional development. As the founder of the Mathias Bel Institute, he remains actively engaged in analyzing the situation of minorities in Slovakia and developing public policy recommendations. 

Upon receiving the award, Ravasz emphasized that the true value of research lies in its practical application—whether in shaping public policy decisions or implementing concrete measures. He added that bridging the artificial divide between academic research and policymaking has always been a defining principle of his career.