In the past months, professors and mathematicians Barry Koren (TU/e), Karen Aardal (TU Delft) and Ton de Kok (TU/e and CWI) received distinctions for their contributions in science and society.
A pioneer in fluid dynamics and scientific computing
On April 3rd 2025 a special farewell event was organized on the campus of the Eindhoven University of Technology to celebrate the retirement of Professor Barry Koren. During the event he received a Royal Decoration and is appointed as Officer in the Order of Orange Nassau in recognition of his outstanding academic and societal contributions. You can read more about the event on the website of the TU/e. An additional surprise during the event came by Kees Oosterlee, who composed a song to celebrate Barry’s outstanding contributions!
Barry Koren. Photo: Bart van Overbeeke
Optimising algorithms voor complex systems
Karen Aardal, Professor of Optimisation at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) of the TU Delft was made a Knight of the Order of the Netherlands Lion in Utrecht. She is a leading researcher in the field of applied mathematics and computer science. She received this prestigious honour on 25 April 2025.
You can read more about her contributions on the website of the TU Delft.
A bright career in logistics and leadership
During a celebratory gathering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) on June 12th 2025, Professor Ton de Kok was made a Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion. The royal distinction was awarded to him in recognition of his outstanding contributions to science, business, and society. The presentation coincided with his farewell address as a professor at TU/e. You can read more about the celebration and Ton de Kok’s work here.
Ton de Kok and Deputy Mayor Marko van Dalen, CWI.
Professor Aardal and Professor Kok are two of only seven individuals to receive this particular distinction, out of a total of 3427 royal honours awarded this year.
About the royal distinctions
The Order of the Netherlands Lion was established in 1815. It is awarded to individuals with exceptional contributions to society, exceeding expectations. For example, individuals who have performed groundbreaking (scientific) work that is useful to society. The key word is always “exceptional,” meaning individuals with a talent who deliver brilliant achievements. Consider artistic achievements, scientific, (research) achievements, technical innovation, or innovative entrepreneurship. The Order of the Netherlands Lion has three grades: knight (ridder), commander (commandeur), and knight grand cross (ridder grootkruis).
The Order of Orange-Nassau has existed since April 4, 1892. Individuals who have made exceptional contributions to society are eligible for this honor. These include volunteers who work for young people, the environment, (informal) caregiving, sports, neighborhood associations, or refugees. Institutions for this order also include those who demonstrate exceptional achievements in their work and thus distinguish themselves from their peers. These achievements must truly exceed what would normally be expected of someone in such a position. The Order of Orange-Nassau has six grades: member, knight, officer, commander, grand officer, knight grand cross.