Prominent world citizens advise Erasmus University Rotterdam on their rol in society

The university is committed to solving the complex societal challenges of our time through research and education. EUR does this in close collaboration with partners in society. Establishing a Societal Advisory Council aligns with this commitment.

‘I hope they will become critical friends with the university', says Strategic Dean Impact & Engagement Arwin van Buuren. ‘The Council must challenge us and question us continuously'. For this reason, public, private, and civil society organisations are represented. Arwin van Buuren is the link between the Council and the university's board.

Complex society

'Society is becoming increasingly complex. Therefore, it is essential that society and the university collaborate in equal partnerships. The Societal Advisory Council enables the university to identify new developments in society more quickly and respond to them', Chair Marguerite Soeteman-Reijnen says. 'Because the future lies not in an invisible tower, but in the bridges we build together', says Mayhar Zarrinphaker.

The connecting link

Internally, the university has appointed an Engagement Board. This group consists of representatives from all faculties involved in connecting with society. The Board provides strategic advice on how EUR can leverage its knowledge, networks, and people to make an impact, both locally and internationally. On both boards, Arwin van Buuren serves as the connecting link with the university's Executive Board.

The other members are Sabine Biesheuvel of BlueCity, Jacqueline Prins of Zadkine, Julia Mendlik of the Rotterdam District Court, Jurgen Rienks of Nether, and Rosalinde van der Vlies of DG Energy. They are appointed for a three-year term and can be reappointed for another three-year term.