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Former students unite forces: A look at the WHU alumni!
WHU Alumni Day 2025: Alumni share experiences, emphasize the importance of networks and lifelong learning.
Former students unite forces: A look at the WHU alumni!
On September 30, 2025, the ceremonial farewell to the class of 2025 took place at the WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management. The graduates were released into the next stages of their lives with an impressive ceremony.
The ceremony began with a speech by Prof. Dr. Christian Hagist, the Dr. Jörg Kukies, the former finance minister, was welcomed as keynote speaker. In his speech, Kukies emphasized the promising perspectives open to WHU alumni. He appealed to the graduates to always act with a clear compass, to remain curious, to maintain active networks and to take responsibility. These are core values designed to help alumni achieve their professional and personal goals.
Reflection and inspiration
The two student representatives of the year, Pauline Frohn and Justus Scheper, summarized their time at WHU in their speeches. Rector Prof. Dr. In the Master's farewell, Enrique Andrés emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and encouraged the graduates to go through the world open to new experiences.
Another highlight of the day was the speech by Prof. Dr. Carl-Marcus Wallenburg, who introduced an inspiring WHU alumna: Alexandra Heraeus, co-founder of ALERA Capital and chairwoman of the Heraeus Education Foundation. Heraeus emphasized that curiosity is a “superpower” that can not only open new doors for alumni, but also encourages them to actively use networks and promote interdisciplinary exchange.
The event was enriched by contributions from other student representatives, Eglantine Gilch and Jan Gawehn, who also warmly said goodbye to their fellow students. Christian Schilling, Vice-Chairman of In Praxi – the WHU Alumni Association, invited everyone present to become part of the alumni network. He also presented the Outstanding Master Thesis Award to Alexandra Romanova for her outstanding work on the topic “Reframing Corporate Digital Responsibility: A Strategic Entrepreneurship Perspective”.
The role of alumni networks
Alumni play a central role in the academic community. According to Alumniportal Deutschland, there are hundreds of alumni worldwide who aim to strengthen connections between former students. Alumni networks are platforms for professional exchange, knowledge transfer and cooperation. They help graduates to make valuable contacts and exchange experiences. The alumni portal provides support to address these challenges and promote the development of vibrant communities.
Alumni not only bring valuable knowledge but also often financial support back to their alma mater. By creating mentorship programs and organizing cultural and social events, they strengthen ties to the university and promote a sense of community. The range of commitment and activities shows how important alumni are for their educational institutions.
Overall, the event was an impressive example of how alumni networks can help graduates find their way in an increasingly complex society. They are more than just former students; they are ambassadors for their institution and contribute to the continuous development and improvement of their alma mater. More about it You can find out more on the Munich Business School's information pages.