OGM Research Conference 2025

February 3, 2025

The Organization, Governance & Management (OGM) Department at the University of Aruba proudly presents its Anniversary Research Conference in celebration of its 15th anniversary.

Innovative Future of Governance in Aruba

This two-day conference, titled “Innovative Future of Governance in Aruba,” will take place on the 18th and 19th of February, at the University of Aruba.

The event will feature renowned local and international speakers, including experts from academia and the professional field, engaging in discussions on governance, research, and innovation.

This conference will also offer a panel discussion featuring industry leaders and breakout sessions covering topics such as diversity, public governance, social support, and professionalism in the public services. The speakers will showcase our local expertise in governance and contribute to multi-perspective discussions on governance, leadership, and research.

This event is more than a celebration – it is an opportunity to strengthen research in Aruba, promote governance innovation, and connect academia with the professional field. Attendees will gain valuable insights, network with stakeholders, and explore new research directions and policy solutions.

Download Program Outline

Key Note Speakers

Prof. dr. Milko Noordegraaf

Prof. dr. Milko Noordegraaf is professor of Public Management at the Utrecht University School of Governance (USG), the Netherlands, as well as Head of Department of USG. He is also extraordinary professor of Governance and Public Services at the University of Aruba (UA). In terms of research, education and societal impact, he focuses on public management, public managers, government reform, managing public professionals, public services, public professionals, and (new forms of) professional action. He published (international) books and articles, he led many commissioned (consultancy) assignments, and he performed/performs many expert roles, in and around public organizations and politics. He is a member of the steering committee of the European Group of Public Administration (EGPA). He is member and vice-chair of the Dutch State Commission against Discrimination and Racism.

Dr. Kristel de Nobrega

Dr. Kristel de Nobrega is CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) at the Centrale Bank van Aruba and is the current chair of the CIGS’ (Cybersecurity Information Sharing Group) of the regional central bank CISOs. Kristel holds a master’s degree in information management, IT –Auditing, and is a Certified Fraud Control Manager and Certified Chief Information Security Officer. She has a PhD in Cyber Defensive capacity and capability in the context of small states.

Prof. dr. Wieger Bakker

Prof. dr. Wieger Bakker is a sociologist by training and full professor at the Utrecht University School of Governance for the faculty of Law, Economics and Governance (LEG). He holds a chair in Society Oriented Higher Education. Earlier he was director of studies of the Utrecht School of Governance bachelor program and coordinator master programs on public policy and public administration. At the moment he is dean Lifelong Learning for Utrecht University. Since 2020 he is extraordinary Professor Governance, Community and Cohesion at the Faculty of Arts and Sciences of the University of Aruba.

Dr. Stella van Rijn

Dr. Stella van Rijn is a Dutch-Caribbean professional with a diverse and accomplished career spanning journalism, consultancy, academia, and civil service. She was born in The Netherlands, and has been living and working in Curaçao since 1990. She earned a PhD at Nyenrode Business University. Since 2011 she was the Secretary-General at the Ministry of General Affairs in Curaçao, overseeing foreign relations, legal affairs, and communication for the Government of Curaçao, and she was involved with and chaired various committees on special projects. Since December 2024 she is Rector Magnificus at the University of Curacao Dr. Moises da Costa Gomez. Stella’s multifaceted background reflects her versatility and passion for lifelong learning and making a positive difference in the community she serves.