Relationship Manager Elise Kamphuis: ‘It starts with listening’

Elise Kamphuis is a relationship manager at the Ubbo Emmius Fund. She maintains contact with alumni and donors of the University of Groningen and ensures that they continue to feel connected to the research and education that the fund makes possible. ‘What do people find important? What are they proud of? Everyone has their own reasons for wanting to give something back to the university. I usually start by listening.’

Varied work

One day Elise might be at an alumni gathering, the next day she might be preparing for a personal meeting or researching the background of a potential donor.

‘Everyone has their own motivation for giving. It's my job to uncover that. Sometimes I work with colleagues on an event, sometimes I just sit behind my screen analysing data. It's that variety that makes the work interesting.’

From student to relationship manager

Elise studied Economics at the University of Groningen. After graduating, she moved to Heerlen to work at the Open University. There, she developed a course in International Economics and gained broad experience.

Nevertheless, Groningen continued to draw her back. She returned and started working at the Faculty of Economics and Business. Together with Frans Sijtsma, she ran the Science Shop, where students conduct practical research for social organisations.

‘Research doesn't have to be big to make a difference. Even small projects can really make a difference. I loved that, and it shaped me.’

Later, she set up the faculty's career service. What started as a one-woman project has now grown into a solid team that helps students with their careers. ‘We also involve alumni in this. By sharing their experiences or offering internships, they can make a big difference.’

Research that surprises

Elise talks enthusiastically about the projects supported by the fund.

Such as the M20 programme, in which ten PhD students conduct research each year on topics such as sustainability, policy, climate adaptation and artificial intelligence.

Or HTRIC, a project in which medical applications are developed based on ideas from nature.

‘A stent that works like a tick attaches itself, for example. That may sound strange, but it shows how innovative research can be.’

Incidentally, the UEF does not only support science research. ‘Research into equal opportunities in education or citizen involvement in the energy transition is just as important. Those projects touch people. Me too.’

Committed people make the difference

Although fundraising is sometimes still a sensitive issue, Elise mainly sees opportunities.

‘People are quick to think: now they're asking for money. But I see it as an opportunity to build something together. You really don't have to give a large amount to make a difference.’

Many people simply don't know that they can make a difference to the university through the UEF. ‘They already donate to charities, but they don't immediately think of their old university. Whereas it is precisely here, close to home, that you can make an impact.’

‘We are extremely grateful for the supporters we already have. Without them, we wouldn't be able to do this work.’ Want to stay involved with the UEF? Visit uef.nl/vrienden

Energy on the water

In her spare time, Elise likes to get out into nature. She walks, runs and, more recently, has taken up kayaking on the Paterswoldsemeer lake.

‘During my student days, I used to go there to get some fresh air. Now I live nearby and can get out on the water in no time. It’s really enjoyable.’

Music also plays a role. ‘I used to do tango and ballroom dancing, and later salsa. Nowadays, it’s mainly spinning or pump. When the music starts and I can move, my head is clear again.’

Just in Groningen

Elise lives with her husband Catrinus Jepma, a former professor at the University of Groningen, and two cats: Gucci and Luca. She is the grandmother of a bonus grandson.

‘That’s very special, of course. I enjoy that.’

Groningen feels like home. For Elise, it is the place where she studied, where she works, and where she is committed to progressive research and education.

‘It’s wonderful to be able to contribute from here. Together with alumni and donors, we are building something we can all be proud of.’