Prof. Philippe Hiligsmann, future Vice-rector for academic and student affairs; Credit: University of Luxembourg

The University of Luxembourg has announced the appointment of Prof. Philippe Hiligsmann as Vice-rector for academic and student affairs.

The appointment, which will take effect on 1 November 2024, was made by the University’s Governance Board at its plenary meeting on 22 July 2024, after consultation with the University Council and on the recommendation of the Rector.

An internationally recognised researcher in foreign language education, Prof. Hiligsmann has acted as Vice-rector for student affairs at UCLouvain for the past five years, where he has also been Professor of Dutch language and linguistics since 2011. He has also held positions as Dean of Faculty and brings with him proven management experience at a top research university, the University added.

As Vice-rector for academic affairs of the University of Luxembourg, Prof. Hiligsmann will support the University’s teaching mission at the level of Bachelor’s, Master’s and continuing education. His portfolio will also cover the integration of new technologies into the University’s study programmes, such as artificial intelligence (AI), as well as the overall quality of the student experience.

“We are very proud that Prof. Hiligsmann has accepted this crucial role within our institution. His strategic and innovative vision, his experience and his collaborative spirit will be invaluable assets for our academic community”, said the Rector of the University of Luxembourg, Prof. Jens Kreisel.

Prof. Philippe Hiligsmann expressed his enthusiasm about this new challenge: "Students have always been at the heart of my concern, and I look forward to contributing to the development of teaching and student support at the University of Luxembourg.”

Prof. Philippe Hiligsmann will succeed Prof. Catherine Léglu, whose term as Vice-rector for academic affairs will expire on 31 August 2024. The University of Luxembourg expressed its gratitude to Prof. Catherine Léglu for her great commitment to the University and its community throughout her term. Prof. Léglu will remain a full professor in Medieval Occitan and French Studies at the University of Luxembourg.