# 6 - Bruggen bouwen met Universiteitsfonds Delft & Alumnirelaties: hoe TU Delft de toekomst van onderwijs en onderzoek vormgeeft.

Jasper Peterich, the director of the Universiteitsfonds Delft and Alumni Relations, discusses the crucial role of alumni in funding research and education at TU Delft. With over 100,000 alumni, the university has a vast network that can contribute significantly to its future, especially as governmental funding becomes less certain. Jasper emphasizes the importance of fostering a strong, active alumni community that not only provides financial support but also shares their knowledge and networks to help current students and researchers. He highlights innovative projects such as the Digital Twin of the heart, which exemplifies the impactful research being conducted at Delft. The conversation also touches on the growing need for engineers in society and the university's efforts to attract more talented students amid declining numbers in technical fields.

With over 100,000 alumni worldwide, the conversation emphasizes the importance of alumni engagement and financial contributions to support research and education at TU Delft. Peterich discusses the historical context of alumni giving, drawing parallels with practices common in the United States, where universities have long benefitted from substantial financial support from their alumni. He articulates the necessity of building a robust financial foundation for independent research in light of changing government funding dynamics in Europe. As the university approaches its 100th anniversary, Peterich expresses a desire to cultivate a deeper sense of connection among alumni, encouraging them to remain engaged and contribute to the university’s mission of addressing pressing societal challenges through innovative research.

The discussion takes a deeper dive into the unique initiatives at TU Delft, particularly the 'Tech for Impact' campaign aimed at raising funds for specific research projects, including groundbreaking work on digital twins in healthcare. Peterich highlights how these digital models can revolutionize medical procedures, allowing researchers to simulate and test treatments without risking patient safety. The conversation reveals the university’s proactive stance in tackling societal issues such as climate change and public health challenges, underscoring the role of alumni not just as donors but as vital partners in driving impactful research. Peterich’s vision extends beyond financial contributions; he seeks to foster a community where alumni can mentor and guide current students, creating a cy