RUG awards an honorary doctorate to former weather presenter Gerrit Hiemstra

Former weather presenter Gerrit Hiemstra will receive an honorary doctorate from the RUG for his achievements in the field of meteorology and climate change.

The ceremony is part of the UG’s 410th anniversary, which will be celebrated from May 21 to 25. In addition to Hiemstra, three others will receive an honorary doctorate: Director General Tedros Ghebreyesus of the World Health Organization (WHO), economist Mariana Mazzucato and artificial intelligence researcher Kate Crawford.

Hiemstra was a weatherman at the NOS for 24 years and was a familiar presence on TV. Last year on September 14, he gave his weather talk for the last time. He is now co-owner of Weather Impact, focused on innovative solutions in the field of weather and climate. He is also co-founder of Oarshûs, which facilitates the sustainable construction of homes.

Exceptional

Kate Crawford, affiliated with the University of Southern California, will receive an honorary doctorate for her exceptional work as a researcher in the field of social change and media technology, specifically in the field of artificial intelligence, the RUG said.

Tedros Ghebreyesus has been Director General of the WHO since 2017. The RUG honors him for his ‘exceptional efforts and dedication as Director-General of the WHO in combating pandemics such as the coronavirus’. He is also committed to combating other diseases, including Ebola.

Durable

Finally, Mariana Mazzucato will receive an honorary doctorate for her ‘exceptional achievements as an economist in the field of technological change’. She advises policymakers around the world on innovation and sustainable economic growth. Mazzucato is a professor at University College London.

The honorary doctorate from the RUG is symbolized by a traditional burgundy ‘kappa’ (cape), which the nominee receives. In addition, the new honorary doctor will receive a doctorate degree with the coat of arms and seal of the RUG.

The RUG previously awarded honorary doctorates to, among others, Ban Ki-moon (in 2019), former Secretary General of the United Nations, and the South African bishop and anti-apartheid fighter Desmond Tutu (in 2012), who died in 2021.