With his election, the Université de Lille expresses its confidence in Desmet’s extensive management experience and his commitment to cross-border academic cooperation. Desmet has been vice-rector of KU Leuven and KU Leuven Kulak for the past eight years and played a key role in the strategic partnership between both universities. On August 1, he was succeeded as vice rector by Evelyne Terryn.
“The fact that I have been entrusted with the chairmanship of this university in full growth strengthens my many years of commitment to the Université de Lille,” says Piet Desmet. “I look forward to helping shape the future of the university together with Rector Régis Bordet, with academic excellence and strong social and regional roots.”
As chairman, Desmet will monitor the strategic direction and governance of the university, which plays an important role within the Eurometropolis and in an international context.