Ron Tuninga Announces New Chapter After Four Decades in International Higher Education

Tuninga to Continue as Rector Emeritus and Senior Advisor 

Wittenborg Rector Ron Tuninga has announced that he will begin a new chapter after more than four decades in international higher education, business education, executive leadership and governance.

Tuninga announced that he will conclude his full-time executive responsibilities on 30 September and continue his association with Wittenborg as Rector Emeritus and Senior Advisor, remaining actively involved with the institution while pursuing ongoing work in academia, research, governance and advisory roles.

Tuninga has played an important role in Wittenborg's development over two periods. He first joined the institution in 2019 before becoming Vice President and Managing Director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). He returned to Wittenborg as Rector in October 2024, helping guide the institution through a period of continued growth, internationalisation and academic development.

Throughout his career, Tuninga has served as Rector, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Dean, Vice President, Managing Director, Professor, Advisor and Board Member across institutions in Europe and worldwide.

He highlighted the opportunities he has had to connect education with business practice, develop international talent, support entrepreneurship and employability, contribute to accreditation initiatives and help organisations prepare for changing technologies and changing societies.

Reflecting on his leadership philosophy, he said:

“Leadership, for me, has always meant creating environments where others can learn, contribute, challenge and grow.”

Tuninga will remain active through advisory roles, mentoring, research projects, board service and international knowledge-sharing activities.  

He will also continue developing the Round Table in Business Practice Education and Research in Europe and Africa with colleagues Christian Locher, Ad Kil and Ben Q. Honyenuga.

As Wittenborg looks ahead, a strong leadership team continues to guide the institution. Led by President Peter Birdsall, the team includes Rauf Abdul, Dean, Karen Penninga, Director of Corporate Governance, Maike Zürcher, HR Manager, Stephen Orme, Head of Business Development and Operations, and Aydan Holtrigter, Head of Research Partnerships and International Mobility.

Birdsall emphasised the importance of continuity and collaboration at Wittenborg:

“Wittenborg has always been built on collaboration and shared responsibility. The team continues to work closely across departments to support our students and strengthen the institution.”

Tuninga concluded his announcement with a message of appreciation:

“To the many colleagues, students, partners and friends who have been part of my journey: Thank you! It has been an enormous privilege.”