On 24 May 2016, Vrije Universiteit Brussel held the 1st "We Are VUB" Congress which summed up the joined reflection of academic leadership, university students and staff on what VUB stands for and how the VUB community sees the University's future.
The Congress aimed to show how students, alumni, academic and administrative staff – as part of the VUB family – see their impact on society and how, together, their engagement shapes the University. The Conference follows a series of surveys and consultations with members of the VUB community on the university's identity.
During the Conference, a proposal of a new university logo and slogan "Open minds, endless possibilities" were presented.
The Congress took place in an important transition period for the University, as it follows directly the Rector election which had been held in April. Not only was the election noteworthy for having two female candidates running for the office, but it was also the first time that all members of university staff and students were offered the opportunity to vote. The newly elected Rector Prof. Caroline Pauwels will succeed the current Rector of VUB Prof. Paul De Knop in September. Read more about the VUB elections..