Prof. Dr. Andrea Lenschow, University Vice President for International Affairs, Diversity, and Academic Qualifications, emphasized in her speech the exceptional achievement being honored that day: “Devoting oneself to a scholarly topic with such unwavering enthusiasm over such a long period of time and ultimately bringing it to a successful conclusion is anything but a given. You have every reason to be proud of yourself, and we as a university are also delighted that you can now celebrate this with your loved ones; our heartfelt congratulations on your academic degree!”

Dr. Hannah Quittkat, one of this year’s doctoral graduates, highlighted in her speech how much a doctoral degree also depends on circumstances. “For me, it was a very wonderful, but also truly exhausting time,” said the psychologist. In this context, she thanked everyone who had supported and guided her during her doctoral studies, especially her doctoral advisor, Prof. Dr. Silja Vocks. “My doctoral work was marked by several studies that we had to discontinue or modify due to the pandemic, as well as the simultaneous launch of the new master’s program in psychotherapy—one of the first of its kind at a university in Germany. The fact that my doctoral advisor always had an open ear for me despite all this, helped me through professional crises, and also supported my training as a psychological psychotherapist and as a child and adolescent psychotherapist is not something to be taken for granted.”

As a special symbol of connection to the university, the academic scarf—made of red silk on black cotton—was once again awarded to the doctoral graduates this year. Designed by students in the Textile Design program, the scarf is handcrafted locally on a historic Jacquard loom. Prof. Andrea Lenschow explained the special symbolism: “Our university’s logo winds its way across the scarf, just as students successfully make their way through the university, while the silhouette of the castle—the heart of the university campus—represents our university. At the center is a depiction of the City of Osnabrück’s Peace Wheel combined with a lily, a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. We would be delighted if you wore the scarf as a sign of your connection to our university—and to yours—and if it served as a reminder of your time in Osnabrück. Stay connected to your alma mater!”

After the ceremony in the castle auditorium, the procession made its way through downtown to City Hall, where the new doctoral graduates posed for a group photo with Mayor Katharina Pötter on the exterior steps. In her speech, Pötter emphasized the special relationship between the city and its students, staff, and scholars. Following her remarks, she invited everyone to a champagne reception and to sign the doctoral register.

Further information for editorial offices:
Dr. Oliver Schmidt, University of Osnabrück
, Communications and Marketing
Office, Email: oliver.schmidt@uos.de