112th Dies Natalis

Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is at the heart of society and aims to further strengthen that position in the coming years. As an engaged university, we offer education in which our students actively work on solutions to current social issues. We are committed to meaningful collaborations with our environment, to accessibility and visibility, and to a strong focus within our five impact domains:

• Resilience and robustness of our society
• Sustainable entrepreneurship and inclusive prosperity
• A just transition to a sustainable society
• Healthy society & accessible, affordable healthcare
• The responsible use of technologies

We want to highlight the expertise we have in-house, what people can turn to us for, and how our knowledge actually makes a difference. At the same time, we are building stronger internal cohesion: a One Connected EUR. This means improving interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering curiosity as a driver of change. A EUR where people meet, know and appreciate each other across disciplinary boundaries. Where interdisciplinary collaboration is a matter of course and curiosity is the driving force behind change. 

During the 112th Dies Natalis, we will explore what "Strategy 2030" means in concrete terms for our research and our way of operating. 'How do we, as a university, build bridges between fundamental research and societal applications? What role do open innovation networks and strategic collaborations play in strengthening connections within EUR and with the city and society? How do we stimulate public support? How can you, as an employee, student or partner, contribute to our shared future?'

These and other questions will be central to the 112th Dies Natalis, the anniversary of Erasmus University Rotterdam, on 10 November, titled: 'Curiosity connects, knowledge changes.'

Academic ceremony in the Aula

The celebration will begin, as is tradition, with the arrival of the cortège: professors in gowns, the university board, and representatives of study and student associations. The Rector Magnificus will then deliver the Dies speech, in which she will reflect on the current challenges and ambitions of our academic community. 

Honorary doctorate

This year, one honorary doctorate will be awarded, nominated by Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM). With this honorary doctorate, the university honours a prominent scientist whose work makes a special contribution to the field and the social relevance of business administration.

University prizes

The Dies Natalis is also the moment when the Research prize, the Lambers Student Excellence Award and the FAME Athena Award are presented to students and researchers from our community who have distinguished themselves remarkably. The Research Prize and the Lambers Student Excellence Award are made possible by the Erasmus Trustfonds.

Livestream

Dies Natalis can also be followed via a livestream that is publicly accessible. The ceremony will be bilingual (Dutch/English).

Reception

There will be a reception after the ceremony. The reception will take place from 16:30 to 17:30 hrs at the Theil Hall.

Photography & Video

Photographs and video recordings will be made during the Dies Natalis. You may be recognisable in the images. As a visitor, you consent to the storage and use of these images for commercial purposes.

Sustainability

The Dies Natalis will be a carbon-conscious celebration, with vegetarian catering and offsetting of CO2 emissions.