Royal honours for Jacqueline Cramer

After her farewell speech (pdf) as Professor of Sustainability and Transitions, Jacqueline Cramer was presented by Utrecht mayor Sharon Dijksma on Wednesday with a royal honour that is only rarely awarded. Cramer has been appointed Commander in the Order of Orange-Nassau.

Jacqueline Cramer receives this royal honour for the indelible mark she has made on both science and society. Her career shows that academic knowledge does not have to stand alone: Cramer has repeatedly managed to make the connection between research, policy and practice. At the same time, she has inspired countless students and PhD candidates with her strong social commitment and emphasis on the applicability of scientific insights beyond the walls of the university.

Her expertise is in high demand worldwide within networks and policy committees focusing on the circular economy and corporate social responsibility. Thanks to her efforts, the Netherlands is internationally recognised as one of the frontrunners in this field. Her work has paved the way for Dutch entrepreneurs and researchers to collaborate internationally on circular solutions.

An important part of her legacy lies in the way she mentored young researchers. Cramer was known for her open attitude, her sharp insight and her personal attention. The bonds with her PhD students remain strong to this day – many of them are now working themselves on making policy and business more sustainable, both at home and abroad.