At Radboud University 'Sidelined' Staff Ombuds Exits, as Student Ombuds Arrives

Nancy Viellevoye, who was appointed the first Staff Ombudsperson for Radboud Universiteit in 2021, has resigned her position. In an interview with the independent campus newspaper, Viellevoye said that she was constantly sidelined in favor of external consultants. She also was understaffed for the number of cases she was expected to handle. The vice-chair of Radboud University’s Works Council observed "It is not a good look for the university if the person who’s put their heart and soul into their job leaves after two and a half years." (Radboud Vox.)

Meanwhile, Aukje Verstegen began work as the university's first Student Ombudsperson in January 2024. She previously worked as a government lawyer and divorce mediator. As the Ombuds, she works three days a week and serves 25,000 students. (According to the university's regulations, the two Ombuds positions "can replace each other if necessary in case of absence." So, Verstegen may be asked to cover staff cases until Viellevoye is replaced.) Verstegen graduated from the University of Applied Sciences Utrecht and completed legal training at Radboud University. (LinkedIn.)

Related post: New Labor Agreement Will Create Staff Ombuds Positions at Leading Dutch Universities; Radboud University Appoints First Ombuds; Radboud University to Expand Ombuds to Students.