New Rector appointed at Mittweida University of Applied Sciences

On 7 February 2023 in Dresden, Professor Volker Tolkmitt received his letter of appointment as Rector of Mittweida University of Applied Sciences from Dr Andreas Handschuh, State Secretary for Science. Following his election by the Extended Senate of Mittweida University of Applied Sciences on 14 December 2022, the rector election process is now complete. Volker Tolkmitt will take up the post on 15 February.

“I am delighted. It has now been formally confirmed once again what I am passionate about and what I am committed to: leading Mittweida University of Applied Sciences in the coming years,” said Tolkmitt after receiving the certificate. With the change of leadership, there are immediate tasks to be tackled, including putting forward candidates for the two vice-rector posts. The university’s Senate elects the vice-rectors on the recommendation of the new rector.

Tolkmitt has been Vice-Rector for Education at the university since 2017. He is therefore no stranger to the Rector’s Office, which Professor Ludwig Hilmer has headed since 2012. Hilmer’s term of office is coming to an end after two terms. Tolkmitt: “Following the past few years, we are in pole position. We are the university that tries new things, that finds solutions before others do. That is what the university stands for – that is how I have come to know it – and that is what I would like to build on.”

The university will officially celebrate the inauguration of its rector this summer at the Evangelical Town Church in Mittweida.

Saxony’s Minister for Science, Sebastian Gemkow, is looking forward to the collaboration: “I am convinced that Professor Tolkmitt will drive the further development of Mittweida University of Applied Sciences forward with wisdom and prudence. Through his work to date, including his role as Vice-Chancellor, he has rendered outstanding service. His election as Rector is a testament to the confidence placed in his abilities. I would like to once again express my sincere thanks to Professor Hilmer… not only for his successful work over two terms as Rector, but also for his willingness to continue carrying out his duties until his successor is appointed. That is by no means a matter of course.”