• Rumours from the corridors

‘Powerful appeal’

Maureen O’Hare, external relations officer

“This is a superb campus! The large expanse of glass creates a feeling of space so that the building feels roomier than it actually is. The glass also provides ample scope for interaction. People in conference rooms or behind closed doors are visible, which makes it easier to make contact. Information is exchanged more quickly and more readily during brief conversations rather than repeated e-mail communications. The coffee machine in the restaurant has a similar, social function. It is the only place in the building where fresh coffee is still available in the afternoon. An ideal place to meet up with students, managers and colleagues from other departments. I feel that this is very important to retain a sense of unity within the school. The new campus has a powerful appeal, an important aspect with respect to companies interested in developing a partnership with us. Companies usually look for the best facilities available. Our renovated campus in Leuven easily meets all these requirements.”

‘The right substance’

Robert Boute, Assistant Professor in operations management

“Since the renovation the campus really has the allure of a business school! The atmosphere in the auditorium is reminiscent of that at Insead and the Chicago Business School. The circular structure promotes interaction and, as a participant or speaker, you are more involved in the lecture than in large, anonymous square university halls. The building has been restyled with an eye for detail and innovation. Wireless Internet access throughout the building is another great feature. A huge improvement on the previous extensive cable networks.”

‘At the heart of the city - great’

Ria Vogelaerts, secretary of the MBA & Masters Department

“We all breathed a sigh of relief when the return to Vlamingenstraat was announced. The Philips site was an excellent interim solution, but it was beginning to get a bit cramped. We really looked forward to the move! And now we know why. Because the new campus has really exceeded all expectations. We are accommodated in a beautiful, spacious office where we can work in an extremely peaceful environment and the reception desk, downstairs, has taken over many of our former tasks. Furthermore, it is just wonderful to be able to work at the heart of the city of Leuven. It feels great to have access to just anywhere at lunchtime or in the evening straight from work. The parking facilities ensure that we do not have to leave our car miles away from the school. Even that has been taken into account.”

Orator - March 2007