Ambassador Henk te Velde is the new interim Dean of the Faculty of Humanities

Prof Henk te Velde, professor of Dutch History, will assume this role for a period of two years.
He succeeds prof. dr. Mark Rutgers, whose second term as Dean will conclude at that time. Prof. Rutgers will subsequently retire after an impressive career, during which he made a significant contribution to the Faculty.
Henk te Velde is not only a distinguished academic but also actively involved in 
the ambassador network of Leiden Convention Bureau.
This network brings prominent scientists, researchers and professionals together
to promote Leiden internationally as a city of knowledge and a prime conference destination.

Prof. te Velde specialises in Dutch and Western European history from the late 18th century onwards.
His research focuses on political history, rhetoric and political traditions.
In 2025, his latest study on political eloquence and debate culture in the Netherlands since 1800 will be published.
Additionally, he holds various social and academic roles,
including serving as chairmanship of the Koninklijk Nederlands Historisch Genootschap (KNHG) and as a member of the Koninklijke Nederlandse Akademie van Wetenschappen (KNAW).

Henk te Velde on his appointment: ‘It is good that the decision has been made.
The confidence that I can fulfil this interim role is both stimulating and an honour.
I feel its my duty to serve the faculty, where I have enjoyed working for so long, if I can. It will not be easy, but I will do my best to contribute to a strong and future-proof Faculty of Humanities.’     

The Executive Board commends Henk te Velde for his leadership and ability to bring people together. Rector Magnificus Hester Bijl says: " We are extremely pleased that Henk te Velde is taking on this challenging role. He is a true connector, knows the faculty very well, and possesses significant administrative expertise. He is open to advice but does not shy away from difficult decisions. This makes him the right person to guide our faculty through this challenging period."

The Faculty Board also joins the Executive Board's sentiments. Vice Dean Jeroen Touwen, speaking on behalf of the Faculty Board, says: " We know Henk te Velde as a great colleague and a dedicated administrator. He is very familiar with the faculty, and we are pleased that he is willing to serve as the dean of our faculty in the coming years."

The university thanks the outgoing dean, Mark Rutgers, for the pleasant and professional collaboration over the past years. The faculty currently has an opening vacancy for an interim vice-dean, with the aim of completing this procedure by the end of the year. Farewell events for the retiring dean and vice-dean will take place in 2025.

We congratulate Henk on this achievement and wish him success in his new role.

(This article is based on the original article, written by Leiden University on 12 November 2024.)