Jan Huizing, Beadle of the University of Groningen, in the Senate Chamber.

For the third installment of ‘Joris Kijkt‘ in Universiteitskrant Groningen, I photographed beadle Jan Huizing.

It should stay this way—the way it’s always been.

Jan Huizing has guarded over the university since 1980. He started working as a security guard and saw many incidents during those years. Recently he caught two burglars hiding in a toilet. “When I started working there was still respect for someone wearing a uniform, but nowadays those guys don’t hesitate to pull a knife. I loved the work, but looking back I am glad it is behind me. It became too dangerous.” He is still a guardian of the university, but today the subject of his protection is protocol. In his present job as beadle, he makes sure that PhD ceremonies and inaugurations flow smoothly. “For centuries we have performed these ceremonies by the same protocol, and it should stay this way—the way it’s always been. As beadle it’s my responsibility to uphold it.”

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