The first copy of the English book for which TU/e started a search for its identity and individuality was presented to Eindhoven mayor Rob van Gijzel by Executive Board Chairman Jan Mengelers last Tuesday night. “The TU/e DNA is very similar to that of Eindhoven. Both are characterized by close collaboration with government and industry, and an open, informal, friendly, and approachable atmosphere. I’m very proud of Eindhoven, but just as proud of you. TU/e is my university”, said Van Gijzel in the Senaatszaal, addressing some forty people who have all contributed to the book in some way or another.

Board member Jo van Ham was delighted to hear the mayor considers TU/e ‘his’ university. He explained the idea for the book was born at the professors’ dinner. “It was there we said there’s only one story, and it’s sprung from the hearts of all our people from all departments. And we promised to write a book.”

Executive Board Chairman Jan Mengelers: “The story of TU/e is a collection of a number of sessions with dozens of faculty members and students. It’s a basic story that does justice to the identity of the organization. It shows our passion and spirit, reveals connections, and offers an insight into a future in which technology can provide solutions for societal issues.”

More than half of the interviews in the book come from professors, and three student stories are included. Apart from text and pictures, the book contains extra digital content through augmented reality. With the free Android and iOs app TU/e AR, smartphones can download videos and 3D animations by holding their device close to the icons in the book.

With the presentation of the book a website was launched where all 21 stories can be read online. Current stories by TU/e students and staff will be added to the story web in the course of time, as a way to keep the TU/e story alive.

The book, put together by the Communication Expertise Center, is meant as a business gift. All TU/e employees will receive the book shortly as well.