Protocol following the death of a member of the UT community
In the event of the death of a (former) employee or student, there are various actions to be carried out by one or more colleagues. Below you will find a guideline for each situation, intended as a guidance because all cases are unique situations.
In all cases, an obituary is written. The communication advisor of the concerned faculty/department can support in this process. More information on making an In Memoriam can be found below under the heading 'Guidelines for writing and distributing obituary messages and obituaries'.
to REmember a person
When a student or staff member dies, a memorial service can help to reflect on the loss together and to remember a person who has died. Managers, colleagues, and fellow students can consider whether such a meeting is appropriate. This offers the UT community the opportunity to say goodbye respectfully. If a commemoration is desired, it can occur on campus or at another location in consultation with the department concerned. HR offers support in this. Do not forget to inform the next of kin and, if desired, involve them in the content of the meeting.
Memorial site on campus
A public memorial site has been set up on our campus. The memorial site, located near the Carillon, is a place that can be visited by everyone. UT students and staff, family members, and acquaintances are welcome to commemorate and reflect on the loss of a loved one. The place symbolises connection and offers the community the space to find support in difficult times.
The HR department is in charge of the 'obituary' protocol. The protocol is available for download for logged-in users only:
If you need other examples of an obituary, contact UTLC at translations@utwente.nl UTLC has templates in Dutch, English and German that can be adjusted with specific details. Also, UTLC can translate obituaries for you.
Exception to all conduct guidelines
In the event of the death of a person who has given significant service to the University of Twente, the President of the University Council may decide to hold a memorial event, to be organised by the University Council.
Contact
Please contact HR Services for any further questions. Tel 053 489 8011.
For ideas, comments or changes to this page, please email webteam-hr@utwente.nl