On April 26th, 2025, Renske Oldenboom was appointed Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau. This royal honour was awarded in recognition of her exceptional and longstanding dedication to the well-being of students at TU Delft. Through MoTiv – the centre for personal development at the university – she has played an indispensable role in the lives of countless young people for nearly three decades.

A listening ear, a strong pillar of support

Since 1996, Renske served as a student chaplain in Delft – a role she held with great care until her retirement in September 2024. Not only was she there for students during difficult times, but she also helped them find direction during the often confusing and demanding student years. She was a connector, a coach, a comforter, and – as many shared with a smile – at times a strict pillar of support. With warmth and clear boundaries, she created space for personal growth and reflection.

Innovation in times of crisis

During the COVID-19 pandemic – a particularly difficult time for students – Renske joined forces with colleagues across the country to launch a national student support hotline. This allowed students to seek help and speak with a coach, even when in-person contact was impossible. It was just one example of her creative and determined approach to mental well-being.

MoTiv and the power of connection

Renske played a vital role in the Delft Student Chaplaincy Foundation, widely known as MoTiv. Through her vision of meaning, motivation, and collaboration, she helped shape MoTiv into a place where both students and staff are encouraged to reflect on what truly matters. She guided student boards toward better cooperation, supported groups experiencing grief, and offered one-on-one coaching whenever it was needed.

More than just a job

What makes Renske Oldenboom so special is that she consistently went above and beyond the expectations of her role. She didn’t just host conversations—she helped build lasting structures to support students. Many have said that it is thanks to her that spiritual and mental care is now an integrated part of life at TU Delft.

Outside of the university, she was also active in several national organisations, including the Kerk en Wereld Foundation and the Association of Contextual Practitioners, where she again proved to be a reliable force during turbulent times.

Gratitude and congratulations

At MoTiv, we believe this royal honour is more than deserved. It recognises a life spent in service of others – listening, connecting, comforting, and inspiring. We are deeply grateful to Renske Oldenboom for all that she has meant to the student community in Delft, and we warmly congratulate her on this well-earned royal distinction.

Dear Renske, on behalf of MoTiv and so many at TU Delft: thank you. Your impact is lasting and profound.