Diana van Hout wins Tilburg University Impact Awards 2023
Diana van Hout's research project has won this year's Tilburg University Impact Award. This was announced at the awards ceremony held on Monday 13 November in the Portraits Room. The submitted projects were judged by Jantine Schuit (chair) and two external jury members: Esmah Lahlah of the Tilburg City Executive and Natasja Leijser, chair of the Midden-Brabant branch of Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers VNO-NCW.
The award was presented by chairman Jantine Schuit. The jury was full of praise for Diana van Hout's research project: "What we like about this entry is, what started as a scientific article turned into a hugely impactful movement. The fact that it became part of the coalition agreement and that the association of tax advisers themselves contacted Diana shows just how impactful the movement became. This project is an example of how scientific research can make a long-term, tangible impact through the cooperation of different parties."
Diana van Hout on her nomination: “In 1969, Tilburg University was the first in the Netherlands to set up a legal advice center (rechtswinkel) and later the first tax legal aid center (belastingwinkel). This nomination is an honor and I feel supported to continue in the Tilburg’s tradition to improve access to justice for the most vulnerable citizens of the Netherlands.”
(Right picture) From left to right: Rebecca Bogaers, Diana van Hout and Gercoline van Beek
Tilburg University Impact Awards
The Tilburg University Impact Awards are granted every year to three projects that create social impact in an innovative way. The first prize, €4,000 and a trophy, was won by Diana van Hout. The second prize of €2,000 was received by Gercoline van Beek and the third prize of €1,000 was awarded to Rebecca Bogaers. The amount is intended for follow-up research.
All three researchers have a drive to counter injustice and contribute to greater equality and livelihood security through their research. By all three working to change the system, their target group will be better helped.