Dear Colleagues,
It is with genuine enthusiasm that I recommend Professor Juan Carlos De Martin for the position of Rector at the Politecnico di Torino. Having witnessed his academic, professional, and personal trajectory for over a decade, I am confident in his exceptional qualifications to lead and shape the future of the Politecnico in collaboration with its students, faculty, staff, and broader community.
My endorsement is grounded in substantial leadership experience in academia, including a thirteen-year tenure as Executive Director of the Berkman Klein Center at Harvard University and my current roles as Dean of the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology and Rector of the School of Politics and Public Policy at the Technical University of Munich. Drawing from my insights into sustainable and effective leadership at premier universities in the US and Europe, I would like to highlight three critical leadership qualities that Professor De Martin exemplifies:
Intellectual Engagement: Credible leadership in academia is deeply rooted in intellectual vigor, openness, and curiosity, which manifest in innovative research, impactful scholarship, generous mentorship and collaboration, and active participation in societal debates. Professor De Martin’s exemplary track record as a scholar, educator, and public intellectual surpasses the highest standards of intellectual engagement. For many of us who have had the privilege of working with him, Professor De Martin is the embodiment of dedication and profound consideration of some of the most intriguing questions and ideas that form the essence of a university’s mission.
Bridge Building: In these tumultuous times, successful academic leaders must be able to forge connections across diverse individuals, ideas, and perspectives. Professor De Martin has demonstrated this capacity through his directorship of the Nexa Center for Internet and Society and his tenure as Vice Rector. He has built bridges among people from different disciplines, backgrounds, and beliefs. His commitment to creating novel interfaces among science, technology, and the humanities is essential for addressing today’s global challenges.
Self-Restraint: Leadership of an academic institution is demanding and challenging. The most impactful leaders I have observed combine their vision and determination with humility and self-restraint. They not only chart a course for the institution but also remain receptive to other viewpoints, understanding that they are not infallible. In my extensive collaborations with Professor De Martin, I have observed this balance of visionary leadership and genuine modesty, which I am confident will continue to benefit him and the Politecnico as Rector.
In summary, Professor Juan Carlos De Martin possesses the vision, intellectual integrity, and personality to guide the Politecnico di Torino to a promising future. His capacity to align ambitious academic objectives with a culture of inclusivity and collaboration makes him an exceptional choice for Rector. Under his leadership, I am confident the Politecnico will sustain its excellence and amplify its influence as a premier institution of higher education.
Sincerely,
Urs Gasser
Dean of the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology
Rector of the Munich School of Politics and Public Policy at the Technical University of Munich
Urs Gasser
Dean of the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology
Rector of the Munich School of Politics and Public Policy at the Technical University of Munich