معرفی
Prof. James Kennedy is a Professor of Modern Dutch History at Utrecht University's Faculty of Humanities, with a secondary role as Distinguished University Professor overseeing Community Engaged Learning (CEL). He previously served as Dean of University College Utrecht (2015–2020). His research focuses on post-war Dutch history, transnational perspectives, and the ethical dimensions of policy-making. Key areas include the cultural shifts of the 1960s, euthanasia history, civil society transformation, and church-state relations. He chaired the committee that updated the Canon of the Netherlands, a foundational educational resource.
As CEL task force head, he promotes collaborative learning between students, communities, and institutions. Notable projects include partnerships with the Stolpersteine Foundation for Holocaust education. His expertise spans political, social, and cultural history, with a focus on democratization and knowledge-sharing. He writes a biweekly column in Trouw and holds roles in organizations like the Museum Catharijneconvent supervisory board.
- Key Roles: Canon Committee Chair, CEL Initiative Leader, Former Dean
- Research Themes: Modern Dutch History, Policy Ethics, Historical Memory
His work bridges academic research and societal engagement, emphasizing the university's role in addressing contemporary challenges through historical perspectives.
