Executive Board President Luc Sels introduces himself: "A great honour"
Since 1 November 2025, Prof. dr. Luc Sels has been the new President of Leiden University's Executive Board. In a message to our university he introduces himself and shares his first impressions.
Dear colleague, dear student,
This week, with great curiosity and genuine enthusiasm, I begin my mandate as President of the Executive Board of our university. It’s a great honour to take on this role at a university with such a rich history, a distinctly international outlook and a strong commitment to the social good.
Over the past weeks, I have had the pleasure of meeting many of my new colleagues. These conversations have been warm and inspiring. The openness, trust and pride with which people speak about their work and university have reinforced my belief that Leiden University is not only an impressive knowledge institution, but also a close-knit community of engaged people. I would like to thank everyone who has helped make me feel so welcome.
After eight intensive and enriching years as Rector of KU Leuven, I know how vital that sense of community is. Universities are built not only on knowledge and research, but also on connection, care and collaboration. We create our university together: through shared ambitions and by valuing each other’s stories, perspectives and talents. That is the spirit I hope to help strengthen at our university.
In the coming weeks, the Executive Board will further refine the portfolio assignments. In my role, I will be responsible for the strategic direction and general management of the university. At its core, this means working with all of you to build a university that continues to reinvent its tradition of academic freedom, intellectual curiosity and social responsibility. A university that combines excellence with approachability, and ambition with care. A university where people can grow, learn and contribute.
Every day, your dedication, creativity and commitment determine who we are and what we can achieve. I look forward to meeting you, listening to your ideas and working together to shape the future of our university.
Warm regards,
Luc Sels
President of the Executive Board
Leiden University