RWTH Marks Milestone Anniversaries of Doctoral Alumni in Joyous Ceremony

On September 5, the University hosted a festive ceremony honoring a total of 129 jubilarians, who reflected on their academic journeys and reconnected with their alma mater. For golden jubilarian Dr. Peter Gilles, stepping into the auditorium of the Main Building was especially meaningful: “The first-year welcome event was held in this very hall. That’s why I have such vivid memories of it – and why standing on this stage feels so significant.”

This year’s honorees included three women and 20 men celebrating the 50th anniversary of their doctorates, joined by 20 women and 86 men marking 25 years since graduation. Together, they represented nearly all faculties of the University. Many traveled from across Germany and other European countries such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Austria, and Greece. One silver jubilarian, Dr. Teguh Prajitno, even journeyed from Indonesia with his family: “RWTH Aachen University and the city of Aachen are, and always will be, my home. Seeing how the University has evolved fills me with pride.”

Rector Professor Ulrich Rüdiger hosted the evening, welcoming the jubilarians and guiding them through a presentation highlighting RWTH’s history, current achievements, and future aspirations. Music from the Bläserphilharmonie Aachen brass quintet added a festive note to the occasion. For silver jubilarian Dr. Georg von Kölln, the event coincided with a personal milestone: “It was the best birthday party I’ve ever had! Remembering my doctoral thesis and returning to my former workplace was wonderful.” Fellow silver jubilarian Dr. Almut Bruns echoed the sense of joy: “It was truly lovely to come back to RWTH and Aachen. As a wheelchair user, I felt very well supported and thoroughly enjoyed the celebration.”

Since 2004, RWTH has welcomed back its doctoral alumni each year to celebrate their 25th or 50th anniversaries. The tradition fosters reconnection with classmates, reflection on shared academic experiences, and dialogue about recent developments at the University.

For silver jubilarian Dr. Eva Leweke, the celebration was also a family milestone: Just 36 hours after earning her doctorate twenty-five years ago, she welcomed her daughter Johanna into the world – and now Johanna is the fourth generation in her family to study at RWTH, where she recently completed her master’s degree. “It’s truly wonderful that we have this kind of celebration today,” says Leweke. “And knowing that my daughter is also a member of this University community makes it even more special.” The following day offered yet another highlight for the family as Johanna was celebrated at the annual RWTH Graduation Celebration for receiving her master’s degree.

– Author: Theresa Laubach