In 1980, Rijksuniversiteit Limburg took a significant step toward gender equality when Maria Johanna (Riet) Drop (1935–2002) was appointed professor of medical sociology by royal decree. She became the university’s first female professor (Maastricht UMC+, n.d.).
Portrait of Riet Drop (Klijn, n.d.)
Drop joined the medical faculty in 1975 and completed her PhD in 1979 under Hans Philipsen. When he moved into a governance role, she was invited to continue his academic work. Though she downplayed the importance of her gender, her appointment was seen as a milestone. Her research focused on health and society, addressing topics like lifestyle, alcohol use, psychosocial behavior, and regional disparities. She also played an active role in curriculum planning and university committees, and was known for her integrity and high standards (Klijn, n.d.). She also contributed to educational planning, curriculum development, and university-wide committees. Within her department, she was known for her strong sense of integrity and high expectations, both of herself and her colleagues (Klijn, n.d.).
Riet Drop seated at a table (Klijn, n.d.)
At a time when women professors were rare, Drop’s presence signaled progress toward a more inclusive academic environment. Her legacy lives on through her work and the example she set during the university’s formative years.