The idea for an award to recognize and make good leadership visible emerged at this year’s Diversity Day at the University of Stuttgart, which centered around the theme of “Social Sustainability.” In the summer of 2024, employees from academic and non-academic services across the university were able to nominate their manager for the “Fü(h)r divers!” award for the first time.
Great response from employees
“We received a total of 24 very high-quality applications. This highlights the extent to which diversity-sensitive leadership is already actively embraced across all areas of the University of Stuttgart," says Prof. Silke Wieprecht, who served as Vice Rector for Diversity and Internationalization until October and initiated the call for applications. Due to the positive response, the prize money was increased from 5,000 to 6,000 euros, and the eight-member jury selected three winners instead of one: Moritz Bächtle, Head of Department 72 "Internal Services", Sannah König, Head of the Makerspace [DE], and Prof. Thomas Wortmann from the Institute for Computational Design and Construction.
On October 29, the three winners accepted their “Fü(h)r divers!” awards, each endowed with 2,000 euros. “This award should motivate the winners to continue on their path, it is worthwhile in every respect,” says Anna Steiger, Chancellor of the University of Stuttgart. Prof. Judith Tonhauser, Vice Rector for Early Career Researchers and Diversity since October 2024, also offered her congratulations.
Diversity-sensitive leadership has many dimensions
Diversity-sensitive leadership has many dimensions. This includes leadership qualities and reflecting on one's own leadership role, but also a clear sensitivity to diversity and efforts to integrate and consider different needs in everyday working life. The three prizewinners are exemplary examples of this.
Moritz Bächtle, who leads a team of 15 in the “Internal Services” department, impressed the jury as a courteous and supportive manager, adept at addressing language barriers within his team in a solution-oriented way. He actively creates a strong sense of togetherness and an appreciative climate. His employees appreciate the fact that he finds quick, pragmatic solutions to health issues or family commitments.
Sannah König, head of the Makerspace, manages a diverse team of 15 people. The jury was particularly impressed by her multifaceted commitment to fostering a culture of respectful communication, her dedication to the well-being of her team members, and her open, constructive approach to discussing her own challenges as a female manager.
Prof. Thomas Wortmann from the Institute for Computational Design and Construction heads a department of eight. The jury particularly highlighted his commitment to non-discriminatory recruitment and appointment procedures. He is dedicated to supporting his team in overcoming both professional and personal challenges and leads by example through his commitment to ongoing professional development.
The jury
The eight-member jury for the “Fü(h)r divers!” award included PD Dr. Kristin Eichhorn (Institute of Literary Studies), Jun. Prof. Amrei Bahr (Institute of Philosophy), Prof. Judith Tonhauser (Vice Rector for Early Career Researchers and Diversity), Dr. Hauke Behrendt (Institute of Philosophy), Ulrich Gemkow (Chair of the Staff Council), Dr. Luise Goroncy (Appointment Management), Sonja Rapp (Head of Human Resources Development), and Susan Völkel (Anti-Discrimination Officer, Chancellor's Office).
The university is committed to diversity and equality
The University of Stuttgart is committed to a proactive and forward-thinking approach to diversity. The aim is to ensure equal opportunities and gender equality for all in an inclusive working, research and study environment.