Bendetta Roux

From Diepenbeek to Amsterdam, New York to Berlin, Bendetta Roux’s journey was more than just a quest for a career and success. An alumna of our alma mater, the commercial engineer previously managed the communications and PR department at Christie’s New York before going on to set up the fundraising and philanthropy department at the prestigious Bard College in Berlin. “Every place I have lived in and every encounter along the way have shaped me into the person I am today,” she says.

Tradition and innovation

According to Bendetta, both Christie’s and Bard College struck just the right balance between tradition and creative innovation. “Both these institutions have a rich history of more than 150 years. Being part of such an institution while being given the freedom and trust to make your own mark within it is exceptional. The growth opportunities you get in such an inspiring environment are huge.”

Bendetta’s impressive career took her to several countries. “In each city, I got to know myself better,” she explains. “You only really realise the significance of cultural identity when you step out of your familiar surroundings. In Amsterdam, I suddenly felt very Belgian, and in New York, I felt like a real European. Those international experiences have undoubtedly made me more humble, curious and empathetic.”

1. After secondary school, I went on to study commercial sciences because…

To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to study. (laughs) I loved reading and writing, so studying literature seemed like the logical choice, but the people around me didn’t think it was such a good idea. Where would this diploma take me? Into teaching? I had no interest in teaching. In my last year of secondary school, I won an essay competition, which was organised by the commercial college in Antwerp. The prize was a week-long stay at Northwestern University in Chicago, and that is what prompted me to study commercial engineering.

2. What made studying in Diepenbeek so special…

The broad spectrum of languages and the international atmosphere created by the many Erasmus students. The small, close-knit campus also created a strong sense of belonging.

3. My favourite spot on campus was …

The agora. It felt like a real ‘agora’, both public and intimate. A place where you would always ran into people but where you could also spend some quiet time. I used to spend a lot of time there.

4. The teacher who inspired me the most was ….

Professor Lefebvre, who supervised my thesis. A flamboyant man, he constantly challenged us to think critically. Although he taught business organisation, he sometimes liked to digress, discussing Nietzsche, for example. I also have fond memories of Marc Van der Linden, our Spanish lecturer. He took us on a memorable trip to Seville, Granada and Cordoba in 1992.

5. As a student, I was…

Very average (laughs). I was fortunate that I never had to study hard to get good marks. Which was probably a good thing because I felt somewhat out of place in this economics programme. I was never a party animal; I’m more of a morning person.

6. If there’s one thing I learned at UHasselt, it’s…

Being open to new opportunities and encounters. People often shape you more than your education does. It is the conversations and contacts you have along the way that define your path.

7. How would you describe your job in no more than 5 sentences?

In my career, I have had two jobs in which I felt that I was in the right place, namely at Christie´s and at Bard College. Both organisations have a rich history of more than 150 years. The idea of being part of something that has existed long before me and will continue to do so long after I am gone. In both roles, however, I also got the chance to introduce change. At Christie´s, I helped to shape the communications department, whereas at Bard College Berlin, I developed the fundraising and networking activities. These positions provided me with a challenge but also with wind under my wings.

8. What do you find most enjoyable/challenging about your job?

The potential to find new ways forward within a rich tradition. Being given the freedom and trust to launch projects yourself. I also loved the space they provided for creativity. A lot of “Schönes und Gutes” (good and nice things) can happen in such an inspiring environment.

9. In my opinion, the key to success lies in…

Positivity, modesty and curiosity. You are just a small part of a very big world. By remaining open and empathetic, you can truly understand each other and engage in a dialogue on a deeper level.

10. If you were able/want to do something or give back to your alma mater, what would it be?

I am happy to share my experience with students who want to follow a similar career path. They can always reach out to me to discuss this.