About 150 graduates of Schmalkalden University were honored at the graduation ceremony on October 23 amid applause from their families, friends, and faculty members. The deans of the faculties of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, and Business Law—Prof. Silvio Bachmann, Prof. Robert Pietzsch, Prof. Thomas Heimrich, and Prof. Mathias Ulbrich, as well as the associate dean of the Faculty of Economics, Prof. Katharina Sachse, congratulated the graduates at the ceremony held at the Meininger Volkshaus on the successful completion of their bachelor’s, master’s, or continuing education programs. The top students in each program also received a gift from the deans.
“The future is not a matter of fate—it's in your hands”
In his opening remarks, University President Prof. Gundolf Baier praised the graduates’ achievements: “You have accomplished a great deal, passed your exams, and lived months of discipline.” However, he noted that this success belongs not only to the graduates themselves, but also to their families, partners, and loved ones. With this graduation ceremony, a new chapter in the graduates’ lives is now beginning. Christoph Zimmermann, deputy mayor of Schmalkalden, also praised the graduates’ achievements: “You can be incredibly proud of yourselves. Tonight is your evening, a celebration of your accomplishments.” He encouraged the young people to take an active role in shaping the future. Especially in times of profound change, he said, fundamental questions must be asked—and, of course, solutions are needed to address them. “The future is not a fate you simply have to accept. You can actively help shape the future,” said Zimmermann. The city of Schmalkalden is very proud to bid farewell to these young people this evening and is always open to students and graduates. “You will always be warmly welcome in Schmalkalden.” Janine Merz, deputy mayor of Meiningen, promoted southern Thuringia as an attractive place to live in her speech. “I’d like to win you over to our region and would be delighted if you’d consider southern Thuringia as an option for this new chapter in your lives.”
Jonas Dorow, speaking as a graduate, addressed the guests at the conclusion of the ceremony. He explained that, for him, there were always three phases during the semester: The first phase was when there was still plenty of time. In the second phase, he realized that half the semester was actually already over. And in the third phase, it became clear that there was only one week left until exams. Time, then, to step on the gas. His studies also took him to China and Lithuania, where he was able to gain valuable international experience. Now a new chapter in his life is beginning, one he looks forward to with joy and curiosity.
The “Think Pink Big Band” from Meiningen provided musical accompaniment for the celebration. Afterward, the graduates had the opportunity to catch up with their fellow students once more at a reception. Those who wanted to dance could hit the dance floor to the music of the band “Glitter Gewitter.”
The event was organized in this format for the first time by alumni coordinator Jana Blochberger. André Mock, head of the University Communications Department, served as the emcee.
