Alum of the Year

Every year, we honor a Utrecht University alum who makes a significant difference in society. Someone who inspires, innovates, or makes a remarkable contribution to others.

Who inspires you?

This year, we'd love to hear from you: which UU alum do you think deserves the title of Alum of the Year 2025-2026? Perhaps you know someone who conducts groundbreaking research, makes a social impact, or is a source of inspiration in some other way.

Submit your nomination

Nominations are open until April 2nd. A jury will then review the submissions.

What are the requirements for a nomination?

The Alum of the Year distinguishes themselves through a combination of the following characteristics:

  • generates impact through exceptional achievements and brings about demonstrable progress;
  • is constructively committed to a social issue and knows how to influence public opinion on it;
  • possesses clear podium and presentation skills, as we organize a lecture, class, or event around the winner in the fall;
  • is active in a field that is also being explored within Utrecht University;
  • is a source of inspiration for students and fellow alumni;
  • is an enthusiastic and worthy ambassador for Utrecht University.

The award is both a token of appreciation for past achievements and an encouragement for further impact.

We understand that nominating someone as a surprise can be fun. However, we do ask you to ask permission beforehand: participation in the election requires the nominee's consent to the nomination and the sharing of their personal data. By submitting the form, we assume you have obtained this consent.

Previous Alumni of the Year

With the honorary title Alum of the Year, Utrecht University underlines that alumni are an important and integral part of the academic community. Together with students, scientists, alumni, social partners, government, and business, the university seeks solutions to the social challenges of our time. An Alum of the Year is someone who advances in his or her field and dares to step outside the box, a socially engaged individual who knows how to inspire today's students.