Celebrating 20 Years of the Alumni Association

Twenty years ago, on 27 June 2006, the association was founded under the name community bremen e.V. – Alumni Network of the University of Bremen.

What may sound perfectly natural today was anything but obvious at the time: an alumni association at the University of Bremen? For many, this was initially hard to imagine. This makes us all the more grateful to those who had the vision and courage to turn the idea into reality. The initiative was championed, among others, by the then Rector of the University of Bremen, Wilfried Müller. Together with a committed group of founding members, he helped establish an independent association that continues to strengthen the ties between alumni, university staff, the university itself, and the Hanseatic City of Bremen.

Hela Bahr – Member of the Advisory Board (center)
Henry Griepenstroh – Second Vice Chair (far left)
Andreas Kottisch – Treasurer (third from left)
Prof. Wilfried Müller– Rector of the University of Bremen at the time (third from right, not elected to the board)
Dr. Tim Nesemann – Chair of the Board (second from right)
Dr. Katerina Vatsella – Secretary (far right)
Michael Wolff – Member of the Advisory Board (second from left)
Zion Yirga – First Vice Chair (not pictured)

Over the past two decades, the association has evolved into a vibrant network that brings togethe

Our special thanks go to them, and to all those who have built, supported, shaped, and developed the association over the past two decades. Without their trust, dedication, ideas, and voluntary commitment, the Alumni Association of the University of Bremen would not be what it is today.

Looking back, we do so with great appreciation for the association’s beginnings: for the pioneering spirit, perseverance, and the desire to keep the University of Bremen alive as a place of connection long after graduation, doctoral studies, or professional milestones.

At the same time, we look to the future. Guided by shared values such as academic freedom, democracy, and an open society, we continue to strengthen the lasting bond between alumni and the University of Bremen, as well as among alumni themselves—through exchange, engagement, and the active shaping of science and society.

Today, our network brings together more than 4,700 members. For this, too, we extend our sincere thanks: to all alumni, friends, supporters, partners, and companions along the way who bring this community to life.