450 years of Leiden University: anniversary wishes from students, staff, and alumni
During the Opening of the Academic Year 2024-2025, we asked guests for their wishes and ideas for Leiden University's anniversary year in 2025.
From new collaborations to creative events: here are some of the suggestions.
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Nour Al Kuhaili, and Cath Prize winner: ‘I think we should give something back to society and show that we want to collaborate more.’ -
Corien Prins, WRR Chair (together with Hans Franken and Gera van Duijvenvoorde): 'Talk to residents of Leiden and The Hague who are going to have a baby in 2025. how do they view the future of education for their children?’ -
Maarten Lamers and Media Technology students: 'Celebrate the individuality of 30,000 students and alumni. A festival of diversity.' -
Inge, wife of Pieter Slaman (Teaching Prize winner): 'Show the impact close to home, for the city. And give some attention to the professionals who make the research and teaching possible. Cherish the history of 450 years!' -
Students from the Elsa, Grotius and BNSL study associations: 'Celebrate with young and old, so that students and professors meet. Also fun: a few big names for an interesting meet & greet. Involve study associations!' -
Martina Vijver, Miranda van Eck and Marcello Bonsangue, scientific directors: 'Show the university's value for the city and its people. We do a lot for society but not many people are aware of this. Our impact now and for the future.' -
Ahmed Mahfouz, Julia Cramer and Rachel Plak, YAL: 'Involve everyone at the university, so also the forces behind the famous faces, and leave a lasting impression, something to remind us of the anniversary.' -
Willem Otterspeer, recipient of the University Medal: 'A spotlight on the humanities and bachelor's programmes, people's first introduction to the university,' and Onno Blom, author: 'The university is the bedrock of the city of Leiden. That is something to celebrate together.' -
Peter van der Velden, Leiden Mayor: 'Celebrate with the whole city, together. Because the city of Leiden = Leiden University, and vice versa. I've realised how unique that is.' -
Student Alexander: 'Let everyone see what the university means for the city – in Leiden and in The Hague.' -
Ab van der Touw, former chair of the Board of Governors: 'William the Silent made the right decision in gifting Leiden a university: 450 wonderful years as a bastion of freedom,' and Alexander Geersema: 'Make it a celebration for the city. After all, the university also belongs to the city.'