Your BSc International Business Administration graduation

A tradition that dates back to at least the mid-13th century, the cortège is a formal procession that carries university faculty, students and graduands to academic events. 

The procession is led by the beadle (Dutch: pedel), bearing the university's ceremonial staff. 

The perspex and silver ceremonial staff was made by the Amsterdam silversmith Chris F. Steenbergen (1920), and presented to the university by the fellow universities when Erasmus University Rotterdam was officially opened on 8 November 1973.

Forget grand buildings – Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University began its journey in 1970, at an admittedly large villa in the Rotterdam suburb of Kralingen.  It wasn't flashy, but it marked a turning point, fueled by the city's business spirit and a desire to raise the bar for Dutch business education.

The school's roots stretch back to 1913 and the ambition to elevate commerce training.  But by the 1960s, a new era beckoned. Universities joined forces with influential Dutch multinationals, heavyweights like Shell and Unilever, recognizing the need for a different kind of business leader – one equipped for an increasingly globalized world.

The result was Rotterdam School of Management, its inaugural class in 1970 a select group of just 30 students.  This wasn't about mass education; it was about nurturing exceptional talent, fostering minds that could navigate the complexities of international business.

Those early years in Kralingen were about more than just lessons. The school tapped into Rotterdam's business networks and included technical training, giving students a real-world edge. There was a feeling that this place was building a new generation of Dutch business leaders who would leave their mark.

Of course, the villa was just the beginning. Rotterdam School of Management is now a global player, with alumni shaping industries around the world.  But as you graduate today, take a moment to think about that house in Kralingen, and just 30 students. It's a reminder that even the grandest ambitions often have modest beginnings.

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Professor Aukje Hassoldt has been the Dean of Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University since December 2024. She is an experienced executive with a strong focus on societal impact and guiding organisations through change. Before joining RSM, she was Dean of the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management at TU Delft. Previously, she held management positions at TNO, RIVM, and Rijkswaterstaat, after completing her studies in physics at VU Amsterdam.

Hanna Schultz studied Translation Studies at the University of Vienna before embarking on a career in professional services within Higher Education. She has held several management roles, most recently serving as Head of Professional Services at the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam. Committed to continuous professional development, Hanna recently completed her MBA at TU Vienna. In her current role as Director of Engagement and Academic Services at RSM BV, she leads teams dedicated to Corporate and Alumni Relations, Career Services, Leadership Coaching, and Registrar's Services.