University Director Arnold Boon steps down

In his speech at his farewell reception, Arnold Boon stressed that Aarhus University’s administration is in a strong position, and is a significant factor contributing to AU’s reputation as an excellent place to work and a leading international university with excellent researchers, talented students and a beautiful campus.

"This is only possible because all of us in administration and facilities management have helped to create a professional framework for excellence in research and education," Arnold Boon said.

He spoke about the journey the administration has travelled since he started in 2016. He gave special mention to the common effort and support for driving AU’s development towards an even more professional and aligned administration that is both proactive and user-oriented.

"I stand by the decisions I've made along the way, and the changes I've spearheaded. Change does not come by itself; it’s even taken some battles. But it has been my job to lead the administration and to ensure that researchers and students have confidence that the administration will provide them with the support they need," he said. He also admitted that he was a bit sad to be leaving AU and the many good working relationships he has here.

“In a little while, I’ll be former AU university director, and a new one will step in. Someone asked me if I’m fleeing a sinking ship, but that’s far from the case. On the contrary. I'm sure that AU and its administration are so strong and so excellent that you will continue the professional work that you are known for,” concluded Arnold Boon, who also thanked all managers and employees for their trust, collaboration and support over the years.

Arnold Boon will now return to Copenhagen, where his family lives, and take up a position as university director at CBS (Copenhagen Business School).