The University of Humanistic Studies turns 35
2024 was a festive year for the University of Humanistic Studies: it was our 35th anniversary. This lustrum year started on 29 January, when the University celebrated its 35th Dies Natalis with the awarding of two honorary doctorates. The anniversary was marked at various points in 2024. The theme of ‘Room for Meaning’ run throughout this festive year.
35th Dies Natalis
The University of Humanistic Studies celebrated its 35th anniversary on 29 January 2024, with the awarding of two honorary doctorates. Professor Kristján Kristjánsson received an honorary doctorate for his scientific research and societal impact at the intersection between moral education, moral psychology and philosophy.
Economist and journalist Sheila Sitalsing received an honorary doctorate for her contribution to the public debate. The Dies Natalis was celebrated on 29 January in the Geertekerk church in Utrecht, followed by a reception with alumni, students, staff and relations of the university.
Symposium with honorary doctor Kristján Kristjánsson
On 30 January, a symposium was held titled: ‘What to do if you don’t know what to do. On dilemmas of educators, chaplains and public officials’. The principal guest, Professor Kristján Kristjánsson, delivered a keynote address on the topic, to which he has contributed so extensively with his scientific research and its practical translation for professionals.
Five scholars from the University of Humanistic Studies reflected on the ethical dilemmas professionals face within the social domains of these scholars' research. The University’s Professor of Education, Doret de Ruyter, moderated the discussion with the speakers and participants.
In conversation about colonial history with honorary doctor Sheila Sitalsing
The first conversation in the series ‘In conversation: knowing and acting’ took place on 30 January. Throughout the lustrum year, honorary doctor Sheila Sitalsing will have several conversations with professionals in the public domain, with researchers and the audience . The series concentrates on the interaction between journalism, scientific research and societal issues. The University’s Professor of Democracy, Menno Hurenkamp, will moderate the conversations.
The first conversation focuses on research and the public debate with regard to Dutch colonial history. The conversation partners are Professor Wayne Modest (director of Wereldmuseum and endowed professor at the Vrije Universiteit), Joandi Hartendorp (policy advisor at the Municipality of Amsterdam) and Professor of History, Memory and Transformative Justice , Nicole Immler (University of Humanistic Studies).
(photo Sheila Sitalsing: Najib Nafid)
2024 was a festive year for the University of Humanistic Studies: we celebrated our 35th anniversary. The anniversary was marked at various points in 2024 with ‘Room for Meaning’ as the central theme.