Patron and honorary citizen passes away
Friedrich Schiller University mourns the loss of Bernhard Vogel
Bernhard Vogel was awarded honorary citizenship by the University of Jena on 10 July 2013.
Published: | By: Katja Bär
Prof. Dr h. c. mult. Bernhard Vogel, honorary citizen of Friedrich Schiller University, passed away yesterday, Sunday, at the age of 92. He had rendered outstanding services to the University in various positions over several decades.
Bernhard Vogel left a deep mark not only as a politician and two-time Minister President of Thuringia and Rhineland-Palatinate, but also as a passionate supporter of education. In particular, his work from 2004 to 2012 as Chair of the Board of Trustees and later the University Council of Friedrich Schiller University Jena testified to his tireless commitment and visionary leadership as a critical friend.
Bernhard Vogel was born in Göttingen in 1932 and has made a name for himself throughout his career with his commitment to education policy. In 1993, as Minister President of Thuringia, he presented a trend-setting higher education policy programme that not only strengthened the autonomy of universities, but also significantly promoted the new construction of institutions of higher education in the young federal states.
His heart beat especially for Friedrich Schiller University Jena, for which he actively and sustainably advocated. In 2013, the University honoured him with the rarely awarded honorary citizenship in recognition of his extraordinary services and deep commitment to the University. This honour reflects his importance as an advisor and critical friend who, with his experience and diplomatic skills, significantly influenced many decisions.
In 2020, he supported the students of the University of Jena as patron and first donor to the Corona Emergency Fund, opening the doors to further donors.
In Bernhard Vogel, the University of Jena has lost a formative personality whose influence will be felt for a long time to come. "His legacy as an educational politician and promoter of science will not only be remembered in the archives, but also among those who had the privilege of working with him and learning from him. He remains a role model for all," said Andreas Marx, President of Friedrich Schiller University Jena.