Whether it be face-to-face or via tweets and vlogs, Carel Stolker enjoys talking to students. And if necessary, he would also reprimand them, for example after a party got out of hand during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this respect, he is part of a long tradition. As early as the 17th century, the Rector was directly responsible for the welfare of the students.

The last year of Carel Stolker‘s rectorship was a crisis year. Coronavirus required drastic measures. For a person who enjoys an informal chat, this must have been hard. The teaching, inaugural lectures and PhD ceremonies continued as much as possible possible, in a hybrid form. After eight intense and special years, the time has come to hand over the chain of office.

A new board will be installed on 8 February 2021. Professor Annetje Ottow will be the new President, Martijn Ridderbos will remain as Vice-Chairman and Hester Bijl will be the new Rector Magnificus. The University will enter a new phase in its long history.