Final answer:
Peter the Great's rule included extensive modernization efforts, which may have included initiatives similar to a university. However, the first universities were founded in Europe long before the Russian Empire's prominence and none of the listed individuals are credited with founding the first university.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of who founded the first university is not directly answered by the historical information provided, however, if we're considering the context of Russian history, amongst the options given, it's important to note that Peter the Great was known for his extensive efforts to modernize Russia, which included education reforms, during his rule in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The closest answer within the options provided would be Peter the Great, as his push for modernization likely included initiatives towards higher education. Although a 'university' as an institution of higher learning existed before Peter the Great's time, with the first universities being founded in medieval Europe well before the Russian Empire came to prominence, Peter's role in the advancement of education in Russia and his establishment of scientific institutions and academies would align with the ethos of university foundation. Nevertheless, none of the individuals listed are commonly credited solely with the creation of the first university in history.