Diane von Furstenberg among UAntwerp honorary doctorates

“She is receiving the doctorate for her exceptional merit in fashion and entrepreneurship but also for her intense commitment concerning women’s rights and human rights in general,” UAntwerp rector Herman Van Goethem said in a statement. The Brussels-born von Furstenberg, 69, also worked as goodwill ambassador for Antwerp’s Red Star Museum, which is dedicated to migration.

Four top scientists also received an honorary doctorate during the ceremony last week. Flemish scientist Jan Rabaey, a professor at the University of California in Berkeley, received a doctorate for his pioneering ICT work. In the 1990s, he laid the basis for what would later become tablet computers with his “infopad”.

He is now developing applications that communicate with the human body through sensors and other forms of technology, such as prostheses controlled by the human brain.

French scientist Almuth Grésillon, meanwhile, was recognised for her research efforts in modern manuscripts and genetic criticism, while Christophe Lasseur, also French, received accolades for his work on waste processing during space journeys.

Austrian scientist Ernst Fehr received an honorary doctorate for his research into the impact of factors like justice and social rules on modern economic life.

All five laureates taught a masterclass that was open to students, alumni and industry professionals.

Photo: UAntwerp rector Herman Van Goethem and Diane von Furstenberg
© UAntwerp