We are deeply saddened by the loss of Honorary Rector Paul De Knop and Honorary Rector Caroline Pauwels. The Vice-rector Hugo Thienpont and the whole team of the Vice-rectorate Innovation and Industry Relations, consisting of VUB TechTransfer, Crosstalks and VUB Foundation, express their condolences to the family, friends and all who knew, loved and respected them. We are very grateful to Paul for the creation of the new Vice-rectorate and the autonomous TechTransfer office in 2015, giving knowledge and technology transfer a new elan at the VUB. Caroline reinforced this, inspired all of us and made us think deeper of what impact we can have with our work. We will remember them for all they have meant for the VUB and will strive to continue our work in the way they would have liked.