Carel Stolker to succeed Paul van der Heijden as Rector Magnificus and President Leiden Universiteit

Professor C.J.J.M. Stolker is to be the new Rector Magnificus and President of the Executive Board of Leiden University. He will assume responsibility with effect from 8 February 2013 during the University’s 438th Dies Natalis celebrations.

The appointment has been made by the Board of Governors following consultation with the Council of Deans, the University Council and the Executive Board. The nomination of Professor Stolker received unanimous approval. 

Chairman of the Board of Governors, Dr Nout Wellink, is delighted with the appointment: ‘Carel Stolker is a true academic, with broad experience in both teaching and research. He is a driven manager, who knows Leiden University through and through. He will be eminently capable of further developing the path set by the University as a research-intensive and internationally respected academic institution.’ 

Carel Stolker (1954) is Professor of Private Law at Leiden University, where he studied Law. He received his PhD also in Leiden with a dissertation in the field of health law. From January 2005 to September 2011 he was Dean of the Leiden Law School.

Carel Stolker also holds a number of academic, management and policy-related positions, including as Deputy Justice and Deputy Judge. Earlier this year he became a member of the Board of Directors of the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). He is currently working on a book:  Rediscovering Law School – Views of a Former Law Dean.

Stolker gave his reaction to his appointment: ‘I believe the Leiden practice of combining the rectorship and the presidency of the Executive Board to be a wise policy. It is an incredible privilege to be given the opportunity in this new role to continue my involvement with this fine University, and with its students, staff and alumni.’  Stolker, who is married and has three daughters, lives in Leiden. 

With effect from 8 February 2013, the Executive Board of Leiden University will comprise:

• Professor Carel Stolker, Rector Magnificus and President
• Willem te Beest, MSc, Vice-President
• Professor Simone Buitendijk,Vice-Rector Magnificus