Ghent University Alumnus of the Year: who were the previous laureates?

The Ghent University Alumnus of the Year award is still a recent tradition at Ghent University, but one that is here to stay. Because Ghent University wouldn't be Ghent University without our alumni, we honour one former student who has made special achievements each year. So which alumni received the award in the past?

Virologist Steven Van Gucht as the first laureate

The first Ghent University Alumnus of the Year was chosen in 2022, when the coronavirus was still very much on the agenda. Quite logically, the first name on our honours list was chosen in that context: virologist Steven Van Gucht. "It really does matter to me because I still feel at home at Ghent University", was his first reaction.

In his chat with Ghent University, Van Gucht elaborated on the role of scientists during the coronavirus pandemic: "At a time like that, you're not just a scientist. Above all, you're a crisis manager. The speed at which everything had to happen doesn't work in pure science", he said. His opinion about all the disinformation is crystal clear: "Scientists and medical professionals who sometimes talk nonsense are hard for me to bear. They can really make me angry because they should know better. The hogwash some people proclaim puts human lives at risk."

The judging panel's decision gave credence to that attitude when it mentioned "his social impact, his clear communication style based on robust scientific knowledge and his characteristic attitude that reduced polarisation in those challenging times".

Catherine De Bolle, first female Alumnus of the Year

The first female Ghent University Alumnus of the Year was Catherine De Bolle in 2023. The Head of Europol is still very much involved in her alma mater now: "Recognition is always nice, and it is even more gratifying when it comes from your own university. I'm very proud of Ghent University, which plays an international role. Our connection is still strong, also because I'm in frequent contact with academics."

That connection is not coincidental, as De Bolle attaches great importance to the role of universities. "We need researchers and academics to cast a critical eye on our security services. Universities can help keep the police up to date on societal changes. They can present new research-based ideas, as we often don't have the time to dwell on certain issues."

The jury also appreciates that Catherine De Bolle was able to break the glass ceiling. This is something she has come to view differently over time: "In the past, I didn't really think about that to be honest, but lately I've come to realise more that it's not so obvious."

Marianne De Backer: top leader in international biotech

In 2024, the award went to Marianne De Backer. Her name may sound less familiar to Belgian ears, but make no mistake, Marianne De Backer is one of biotech's torchbearers. She runs Silicon Valley-headquartered Vir Biotechnology. About the recognition the award represents, she says: "I've received some nice awards in my career, but this is my first award in Belgium. And what's more, it's from Ghent University, where I took my first steps in biotech."

De Backer's many achievements were not a given. "My parents didn't like science as an academic choice for a girl. My school also advised me against it, because they thought my near-sightedness would make me unfit to work with a microscope. Their recommendation was to study languages. However, I was very determined and fortunately I did have the support of my science teachers, who were eventually able to convince my parents."