Dies Natalis

Erasmus University Rotterdam is committed to meeting the challenges of complex transitions towards a sustainable, peaceful and just world in an inclusive and engaged way. To make the difficult trade-offs that inevitably arise as we work towards a better world, our scholars, students and staff use the Erasmian values as a compass.

How do we ensure that as many people as possible benefit from these transitions and no one is left behind? What is needed to retrieve knowledge and ideas from all corners of society? What responsible trade-offs should an ‘engaged university’ make between the various interests concerned? How do we achieve truly inclusive prosperity? And what will it take to educate a new generation of responsible leaders who embrace and actively promote sustainability, ethics and justice? These questions will take centre stage on 8 November at the 111th Dies Natalis, the anniversary of Erasmus University Rotterdam, entitled:

‘Engaging Minds, Advancing Science’.

Promotion video Dies Natalis 2024

Registering for 111th Dies Natalis

Registration via the online registration form is required for access to the ceremony in the Aula and the reception. The official language of the ceremony is English. The 111th Dies Natalis can also be watched via a livestream that is publicly accessible.

Register now before all the seats are filled!

Programme:

Rectorship transfer
During the Dies Natalis, the official handover of the rectorship from Professor Annelien Bredenoord to Professor Jantine Schuit will take place. Jantine Schuit will then give her first Dies speech as the new Rector Magnificus.
Honorary doctorate
Professor Alison Wylie (University of British Columbia, Canada); honorary supervisor: Dr. Conrad Heilmann (Erasmus School of Philosophy).
Honorary doctorate
Professor Koen Lenaerts (President of the European Court of Justice); honorary supervisor: Professor Fabian Amtenbrink (Erasmus School of Law).
The Dies Natalis will be hosted by journalist, speaker and filmmaker Ikenna Azuike and feature musical performances by LAKSHMI.

See for more information on the speakers and artist

Practical information

Date and time
8 November, 2024 from 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm.
Location
Woudestein campus Aula, Rotterdam. After the ceremony there will be a reception in the Theil Building.
Language
The official language of the ceremony is English.

Academic prizes awarded at the 111th Dies Natalis

During the 111th Dies Natalis, awards will be presented to outstanding researchers and students of our university. By doing so, we recognise the talent we have and express our appreciation for scientists and students who have made a significant contribution.

Questions

If you have any questions or comments about this information, please send an email to ceremonies@eur.nl.

Students helping out in the campus garden

Sustainability

The Dies Natalis will be a CO2 conscious celebration, including vegetarian catering and offsetting of CO2 emissions. Read more about sustainable events at our university.

Photography & video

Photographs and video recordings will be made during the Dies Natalis. It is possible that you are recognisable in the images. As a visitor, you give permission for the storage and use of these images for commercial purposes.