Message after the first round - Geneviève Schamps

ELREC

Dear UCLouvain community,

The past few weeks have demonstrated our University’s democratic vitality, and we can be delighted about that. I would like to thank Françoise Smets and Alain Vas for the congeniality of our debates.

As you know, the programme that I am presenting is the product of joint reflection. It has been forged thanks to the collaboration of a very large number of members of our University. I am convinced that each and every one of us, wherever we are, can play an active role in defining and implementing a project that is relevant, inclusive and genuinely conducive to change. The results of the first round of the rectoral election have touched me and encouraged me more than ever to continue along this path.

United and determined, we can embark on the seventh century of our great university: a university that will see respect for diversity, responsible support for ecological and social transitions, and the unwavering pursuit of greater equality of opportunity go hand in hand with excellence, creativity and a revitalised contribution to society; a university that advocates commitment, cohesion and purpose in its three missions and through its various occupations. These are not slogans but sincere and shared convictions that I intend to translate into concrete and lasting action.

Working alongside you during my previous mandates, and now as vice-rector, I have never stopped learning and broadening the range of skills required to be rector. I want to put this experience at your service so that we can all find the time, availability and enthusiasm to get back to what is essential: learning, teaching, research, imparting knowledge, caring and serving.

I will always be attentive to the needs of our community and will pursue this dynamic with renewed energy.

Yours sincerely,

Geneviève Schamps