New KU Leuven Rector is an Alumnus of College ten Doorn in Eeklo

Eeklo (Eurotoday) – Severine Vermeire from Eeklo, now the first female rector of KU Leuven, studied at College ten Doorn, became a doctor and professor, and currently leads the university’s research and educational efforts.

As reported by VRT News on May 20, 2025, Severine Vermeire, originally from Eeklo in East Flanders, Belgium, has made history as the first woman appointed rector of the Catholic University of Leuven (KU Leuven). She attended the College ten Doorn in her hometown and now resides near Leuven in Haasrode.

University officials praised her appointment as a significant milestone, citing her excellence in academics, research, teaching, and leadership. Vermeire’s journey—from an outstanding student to becoming one of Belgium’s most influential academic figures—reflects her longstanding dedication and hard work.

“She was sweet and smart, a primus without much pretension.”

— Petra Van Belleghem, former classmate of Severine Vermeire

How did Eeklo’s Severine Vermeire become KU Leuven’s first female rector?

Petra Van Belleghem, now a teacher at College ten Doorn and former classmate of Vermeire, fondly remembers their school days together. The pair spent five academic years in the same classes, from the 2nd to the 6th year of secondary education.

“We were in the same class from the 2nd to the 6th year, and I have fond memories of her.”

Petra described Severine as a reserved, intelligent, and kind student who consistently achieved excellent grades. Despite her academic achievements, she was modest and avoided drawing attention to herself.

Interestingly, College ten Doorn has educated more than one prominent university leader. Rik Van de Walle, the current rector of Ghent University, also attended school in Eeklo. Geert Faes, a spokesperson for the college, noted that Van de Walle attended the former all-boys College of Eeklo, while girls, including Severine, studied at Onze-Lieve-Vrouw ten Doorn. Around 25 years ago, the two schools merged to form the coeducational College ten Doorn known today.

Tony Vermeire, head of College ten Doorn, expressed pride in the accomplishments of alumni like Severine Vermeire and Rik Van de Walle. He emphasized the school’s interest in strengthening ties with higher education institutions and potentially inviting noteworthy alumni to return. His vision includes enhanced collaboration between secondary schools and universities to support students throughout their entire educational journey.

Severine Vermeire’s rise to KU Leuven’s top academic position is rooted in humble beginnings. Originating from Eeklo, Belgium, her father worked as a hairdresser and her mother as an accountant. As the eldest of three children, she excelled academically, earning a Latin-Greek diploma from College ten Doorn in 1988. She also attended Onze-Lieve-Vrouw ten Doorn.

Vermeire went on to study medicine at KU Leuven, graduating as a doctor in 1995. Driven by a strong passion for research, she earned her PhD in 2001. By 2005, she began teaching at KU Leuven’s Faculty of Medicine and was promoted to full professor by 2020. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she served as the Research Coordinator for the university’s Biomedical Sciences group, contributing to major scientific research efforts.