‘A special selection of UvA staff members who have each made an impact across the university in their own way, from a safe campus to interdisciplinary education and an inclusive working environment,’ says Verbeek. ‘By awarding the Honorary Medallions, we wish to express our gratitude for their tireless dedication to the UvA.’

The laureates

Dr Lucy Wenting, director of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies

Lucy Wenting receives the Honorary Medallion for her exceptional and long-standing commitment to educational innovation and interdisciplinary education at the UvA. For many years, she dedicated herself to the development of innovative degree and educational programmes that received national and international recognition. Thanks to her vision, tenacity and inclusive leadership, interdisciplinary education has grown into an important and lasting part of the UvA’s educational profile - one aligns with the societal challenges of our time.

Her enthusiasm has led to UvA-wide structural changes. The innovative teaching practices she initiated have been implemented in various degree programmes, minors, honours modules and electives. Noteworthy here, too, is her contribution to the development of educational leadership, through which she made a fundamental contribution to the positioning and appreciation of teaching within the university. She has also selflessly served as chair of various committees and steering groups and is praised as a warm and people-oriented leader.

Through her work, she has had a lasting impact on the quality, collaboration and societal relevance of education at the UvA.

Robin van Schijndel, senior project manager / housing policy advisor

Throughout his 40-year career at the UvA and HvA libraries, Robin made an exceptional contribution to the broader academic community through his dedication, vision and leadership. He played a key role in the development of innovative library facilities, study spaces and services for students and staff. Inclusivity and diversity were paramount in this process, creating a welcoming environment for underrepresented groups as well.

In particular, Robin was invaluable to the realisation of the new University Library on the Vendelstraat. During a long and complex process, he was the stable force that brought together vision, organisation and execution. Thanks to his tenacity, technical knowledge, and ability to connect people, the new University Library grew into an open, future-oriented and inspiring meeting place for the academic community. Additionally, he consistently dedicated himself to innovation within the library, including new study space concepts and technological applications that are now widely adopted.

Colleagues and partners describe Robin as an inspiring, committed and people-oriented professional who consistently went above and beyond what was expected of him.

His enthusiasm, expertise and immense dedication have had a lasting impact on the UvA, the University Library, and the way students and staff experience the university.

Dr Siri Boe-Lillegraven, associate professor and diversity officer at the Faculty of Economics and Business

Siri Boe-Lillegraven receives the Honorary Medallion for her commitment to diversity, inclusion and social safety at the university. As diversity officer of the Faculty of Economics and Business, alongside her work as an associate professor, she succeeded in placing diversity and inclusion firmly on the agenda of the faculty, as well as within the broader UvA community. With great tenacity and creativity, she developed initiatives that contribute structurally to a more inclusive university for students and staff. In this role, she has meant a great deal to, among others, first-generation students and the LGBTQ+ community.

Under her leadership, more inclusive recruitment and selection procedures were introduced, mentoring and onboarding programmes for students were expanded, and policies were developed to support women, first-generation students, international students and staff with a migration background or disability. She also played a key role in strengthening social safety and raising awareness regarding diversity and inclusion within education and the culture of the organisation.

In addition to her work in the field of diversity and inclusion, Siri is a valued lecturer and researcher with a strong commitment to societal issues and students. She has had a lasting and meaningful impact on the university and her community.

Ton Prosec, security coordinator UvA/HvA

As UvA/HvA security coordinator, Ton Prosec has distinguished himself for years through a high degree of commitment, professionalism and sense of responsibility that far exceeds what is expected of his position. Colleagues describe him as a quiet force who is always present when needed, both visibly and behind the scenes.

Ton played a crucial role in the security of Princess Amalia during her time at the UvA. Thanks to his careful and discreet approach, she was able to participate in university life safely. Additionally, in recent years, he has been indispensable during demonstrations, occupations and other high-risk situations at the university. With his calmness, decisiveness and collaborative attitude, he managed to ensure the safety of students, staff and administrators under often difficult circumstances.

Even outside of crisis situations, Ton tirelessly dedicates himself to the university community. For years, he has guided the boards of the Introduction Week, is available day and night to students, and supports staff and researchers facing threats or unsafe situations. In doing so, he pays particular attention to student well-being and social safety.

Colleagues praise his humane approach, his commitment, and his ability to bring calm and confidence to complex situations. Through his dedication, commitment, and care for others, Prosec has made a lasting and exceptional contribution to a safe and inclusive university.