Jury president Voskamp: 'It was difficult to make a decision, seeing that the shortlist consisted of five very special lecturers who all stand out in terms of their commitment and infectious enthusiasm. All five also possess the gift of being able to communicate complex information in a clear fashion.'

Starreveld plays vital role in Psychology programme

According to the jury report, ‘Peter Starreveld not only ensures that his lectures are inspiring and first-rate, he also plays an essential part in contributing to the quality and organisation of the teaching within the Psychology programme. It is for this reason that this lecturer is a cut above the rest'. That is why he receives the prize: a golden sculpture of a pair of stilts. The stilts symbolise the good lecturer who rises above his or her peers due to unique qualities. The Lecturer of the Year 2009 also receives €2,000.

Special prize for the nominees

The jury has awarded a special prize to each of the nominees in recognition of their individual qualities:

• Senior Lecturer in Sociology Dr Bart van Heerikhuizen received the prize for combining Interdisciplinarity and Accessiblility;
• Professor of Medicine Dr Hugo Heymans received the prize for combining Insight and Inspiration;
• Lecturer in Spanish Language and Culture Carmen Lie-Lahuerta received the prize for combining Innovation and Passion;
• Professor of Law Jit Peters received the prize for combining Theory and Practice;
• Senior Lecturer in Psychology Dr Peter Starreveld received the prize for combining Didactics and Involvement