The VUB and ULB are joining forces through a new shared non-profit association: Andrée Geulen. The organisation aims to deepen collaboration between the two Brussels universities — in education, research, and social engagement. The association was officially launched on 15 October 2025 at Usquare, which will serve as its home base.
The association’s name was chosen with care. Andrée Geulen, the Brussels teacher who helped rescue more than 300 Jewish children during the Second World War, stands as a symbol of courage, solidarity and commitment.
“Today, we honour a shining example. Her name? Andrée Geulen. But to the children, she was simply ‘Juffrouw Andrée’,” said VUB Rector Jan Danckaert during the ceremony. “She was a woman of unshakeable conviction — a resistance fighter who brought light into dark times.”
The creation of this non-profit fits within both universities’ ambition to anchor their joint projects more firmly and sustainably. It marks the next step in a long-standing partnership, with examples such as Bruface, the joint engineering programme, and the Master in Urban Studies (MUS).
Innovative initiatives like the FARI Institute for ethical artificial intelligence and the Learning and Innovation Centre (LIC) also form part of this shared story.
“More than giving her name, we wanted to give her spirit a compass — pointing towards solidarity, mutual support, and resistance,” said ULB Rector Annemie Schaus. “It’s a demanding mission — one we can only achieve together.”
The Andrée Geulen Association provides a strong framework for new initiatives in education, research, infrastructure and social impact. Based at Usquare — the new university district that quite literally bridges both campuses — the organisation aims to build connections where others see boundaries.
The inauguration was attended by Anne and Catherine Hersovici, the daughters of Andrée Geulen, as well as representatives from both universities. A new Memory Hall at Usquare honours Geulen’s life’s work and symbolises the enduring bond between VUB and ULB.
Through the Andrée Geulen Association, both universities reaffirm their shared mission: to use knowledge for the benefit of society, and to inspire young people to — just like their namesake — bring light where there is darkness.