TUM honors its alumni on the anniversary of their graduation

11/17/2025
Reading time 2 min.

Twenty-five, fifty, or sixty years ago, they completed their degrees or doctorates at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Now, around 150 graduates have returned to their alma mater to receive their silver, gold, and diamond anniversary certificates from TUM President Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann and members of the university's executive board at a ceremony on the Garching campus.

Engineer Günter Heilmann (degree in architecture in 1960), who celebrated his 90th birthday in July, and his wife Dr. Lore Heilmann (degree in architecture in 1962) were honored with diamond diplomas. On the left is Executive Vice President Prof. Juliane Winkelmann, on the right is TUM President Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann.

“Our alumni are the living foundation of our university,” emphasized President Hofmann in his speech. “They carry the values, curiosity, and excellence of TUM out into the world – and at the same time remain closely connected to it. Their life paths impressively demonstrate how education, research, and social engagement can work together.”

About half of those honored this year celebrated their silver anniversary – alumni who are still in the midst of their professional lives and now hold leadership positions in industry, business, science, and politics. They shape technological innovations, drive sustainability issues forward, or lead international teams and companies. Their commitment shows how strongly TUM is anchored in key future fields and how actively its graduates are shaping progress.

Part of the TUM family for over 50 years

Equally impressive are the careers of the Golden and Diamond Jubilarians, who can already look back on several decades of professional and social influence. Many of the Jubilarians have received multiple awards for their commitment to science, business, and society, including five alumni who have been awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany – a sign of exceptional achievements and contributions to society. The jubilarians also included four TUM Emeriti of Excellence, who continue to shape the university today with their scientific excellence and tireless dedication.

A very special moment of the evening was the honoring of the oldest jubilarian: Günter Heilmann, who celebrated his 90th birthday in July, was honored together with his wife Dr. Lore Heilmann (Diploma in Architecture 1962) and his long-time friend from university Prof. Karlheinz Rudel (Diploma in Architecture 1960) for his diamond diploma – belatedly, as he completed his architecture studies 65 years ago with a very good degree.

Some of the anniversary celebrants are connected to TUM not only through their own studies, but also through family tradition: around a third of them reported that their children, grandchildren, or siblings are also studying or have studied at TUM – a strong sign of a bond that spans generations. Many alumni are also involved in the TUM Mentoring program for students or support the university through the Friends of TUM association.

Further information and links

Technical University of Munich

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