The University of Humanistic Studies turns 35
2024 is a festive year for the University of Humanistic Studies: it is the year of its 35th anniversary. This lustrum year starts on 29 January, when the University celebrates its 35th Dies Natalis with the awarding of two honorary doctorates. The anniversary will be marked at various points in 2024. The theme of ‘Room for Meaning’ will run throughout this festive year.
35th Dies Natalis
The University of Humanistic Studies will celebrate its 35th anniversary on 29 January 2024, with the awarding of two honorary doctorates. Professor Kristján Kristjánsson will receive 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 will receive an honorary doctorate for her contribution to the public debate. The Dies Natalis will be celebrated on 29 January in the Geertekerk church in Utrecht from 3 to 5.30pm, followed by a reception. Alumni, students, staff and relations of the University are cordially invited to attend.
Symposium with honorary doctor Kristján Kristjánsson
On 30 January, a symposium will be 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, will deliver 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 will reflect on the ethical dilemmas professionals face within the social domains of these scholars' research. The University’s Professor of Education, Doret de Ruyter, will moderate the discussion with the speakers and participants.
The symposium will be held at the University of Humanistic Studies from 9.30am to 4.15pm. The language is English. The University invites all academics and professionals with an interest in the theme to attend. Please register your attendance in advance since the number of seats is limited.
In conversation about colonial history with honorary doctor Sheila Sitalsing
The first conversation in the series ‘In conversation: knowing and acting’ will take 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).
The conversation will take place from 5 to 6.30pm at the University of Humanistic Studies. The University invites professionals, students, academics, staff and other interested parties to attend. Please register in advance since the number of seats is limited.
(photo Sheila Sitalsing: Najib Nafid)
2024 is a festive year for the University of Humanistic Studies: it is the year of its 35th anniversary. The anniversary will be marked at various points in 2024 ‘Room for Meaning’ as the central theme.