During the ceremony, an group of 102 students will receive their Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. Of the graduating class, about half have a Dutch nationality, and in total 27 nationalities are represented. Most of our graduates will be continuing their studies, either in the Netherlands or abroad, while some will first enjoy a well-deserved break. We will find our graduates all over the world, from Santa Cruz to Sweden and from Amsterdam to Australia. We wish them all the best.
The commencement address will be by Corinne Dettmeijer. F
ollowing a successful career in the judiciary, Corinne Dettmeijer became Dutch National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Human Beings in 2006 by Royal appointment. In 2009 she advised that her mandate be expanded to include child pornography and further broadened to encompass the whole spectrum of sexual violence against children, thus founding and leading a unique institute that independently reports on all aspects of sexual violence against children and is now a well-respected and heeded advisor for the Government. Long before the #MeToo movement she published data and facts on the epidemic nature of sexual abuse of children.
In November 2019 she was – by a huge majority of votes – elected member of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women of the UN. She started her work in 2020 and became Chair on the Working Group on Communications.
Preceding the commencement address, the University College Roosevelt Choir will perform several songs. Furthermore, several musical and poetry interludes will liven up the ceremony. These interludes are preformed by graduates, students and teachers.
Jochem Pannekoek has been chosen as Valedictorian of his year. With a near perfect GPA in three years, and impactful contributions to the UCR student community, he will deliver the Valedictorian Address.
The weather forecasts predict warm and slightly windy conditions. The trees on the Abbey Square will provide some shelter. Water bottles will be provided for all attendees. Guests with a ticket have free choice of seat within the area reserved for guests.
We look forward to a lively ceremony!