Internet Society recognizes former RIPE Chairman for his collaboration and contributions to building the Internet across Europe and beyond
[Prague, Czech Republic] — The Internet Society today announced that its prestigious Jonathan B. Postel Service Award was presented to Rob Blokzijl for his pioneering work, 25 years of leadership at Réseaux IP Européens (RIPE), and for enabling countless others to spread the Internet across Europe and beyond. Dr. Blokzijl was selected by an international award committee, comprised of former Jonathan B. Postel award winners, which placed particular emphasis on candidates who have supported and enabled others in addition to their own specific actions.
During the 1980s, Dr. Blokzijl was active in building networks for the particle physics community in Europe. Through his experience at the National Institute for Nuclear and High Energy Physics (NIKHEF) and CERN, he recognized the power of collaborating with others building networks for research and travelled worldwide to promote cooperation across networkers. In the 1990s, Dr. Blokzijl was influential in the creation of the Amsterdam Internet Exchange, one of the first in Europe. His most widely recognized contribution is as founding member and 25-year chairman of RIPE, the European open forum for IP networking. Dr. Blokzijl was also instrumental in the creation of RIPE NCC in 1992, the first Regional Internet Registry in the world.
“Rob’s technical expertise and tireless work had a profound impact on the development of the Internet as we know it today,” said Kathy Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Internet Society. “Beyond the breadth of his technical contributions, Rob is known across the Internet community for his strong leadership and unwavering commitment to collaboration and cooperation, exemplifying the spirit of this award.”
The Postel Award was established by the Internet Society to honor individuals or organizations that, like Jon Postel, have made outstanding contributions in service to the data communications community. The award is focused on sustained and substantial technical contributions, service to the community, and leadership.
The Internet Society presented the award, including a US$20,000 honorarium and a crystal engraved globe, during the 93rd meeting of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) held in Prague, Czech Republic, 19 July – 24 July 2015.
About the Internet Society
The Internet Society (www.internetsociety.org) is the trusted independent source for Internet information and thought leadership around the world. It is also the organizational home for the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). With its principled vision, substantial technological foundation and its global presence, the Internet Society promotes open dialogue on Internet policy, technology, and future development among users, companies, governments, and other organizations. Working with its members and Chapters around the world, the Internet Society enables the continued evolution and growth of the Internet for everyone.
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