Farewell to Prof. Norbert Vanhove: A Pillar of the College of Europe Retires After 63 Years of Service

The College of Europe community bids a fond farewell to its long-serving Treasurer, Prof. Norbert Vanhove, who retires on 30 June 2025 after an extraordinary 63-year association with the institution.

At the Closing Ceremony of the Jacques Delors promotion held on Friday 20 June 2025 in the magnificent Bruges Stadsschouwburg, Rector Mogherini expressed to the assembled audience of students, staff, faculty and honoured guests her gratitude for Professor Vanhove's lifetime of faithful service to the College of Europe.

Professor Vanhove was honoured previously by Rector Mogherini during a staff celebration held on 23 May 2025 as part of the College's 75th anniversary events. In his address on this occasion, Prof. Vanhove reflected on his distinguished career at the College that began in 1962, starting as a part-time assistant,  and culminating in two decades of service as Treasurer. Over the decades, his contribution to the College has been both foundational and transformative.

Throughout his long tenure, Prof. Vanhove held multiple roles: assistant, lecturer, visiting professor of Economics, fundraiser, and finally Treasurer, a position he assumed in 2005. He recalled how in 1962, Governor Olivier Vanneste first encouraged him to join the then-small College, which counted just 50 students at the time.

One of Prof. Vanhove’s most notable legacies is the transformation of the Verversdijk site—from a dilapidated complex into a modern academic facility. Under his stewardship, the College not only secured essential funding but also achieved significant financial efficiencies. Altogether, he raised €25 million in contributions to support campus development, student scholarships, and academic facilities.

Also during challenging financial periods, Prof. Vanhove helped ensure the College’s financial health. He takes pride in leaving behind "an excellent balance sheet," as he put it, which serves as a stable foundation for the future. He also acknowledged the vital support of longtime assistant Katrijn Pieters, highlighting her invaluable role in the College’s fundraising successes.

In closing his remarks, Prof. Vanhove quoted Jean Monnet: “Rien n’est possible sans les hommes, rien n’est durable sans les institutions.” He reaffirmed his continued commitment to the College, "as long as health permits".

At the last Administrative Council meeting that Prof. Vanhove attended as Treasurer on 3 June 2025, President Herman Van Rompuy offered a heartfelt tribute. Beyond his contributions to the development of the College on the financial side, the President commended Prof. Vanhove's rare combination of academic rigour and practical, solution-driven leadership. Prof. Vanhove’s impressive academic legacy in the area of regional economics and tourism, as well as his successful time as the helm of the Regional Development Authority of West Flanders, are part of his life's achievements.

In recognition of his exceptional service, and as a sign of the College's gratitude, President Van Rompuy announced that a classroom on the Verversdijk site will be named in Prof. Vanhove’s honour.

The College of Europe extends its deepest thanks to Prof. Norbert Vanhove, whose life and legacy are inextricably linked with the institution’s history and continued thriving.