He was appointed Chancellor of HSN in 2004 and thus played a key role in establishing the then still very young university. As a proven economist, he was responsible for the budget and managed the university administration. At the same time, he was involved in the management of the HSN as a member of the Executive Board.

Many members of the university actually wanted to say goodbye to their long-serving chancellor in person these days, but unfortunately the official farewell had to be cancelled for the time being due to the coronavirus crisis. However, there was a farewell gift from the staff as a small thank you - with all kinds of memories and nice things as well as a few typical "East German products" that Hans-Wolfgang Köllmann has come to know and like over the last 16 years during his time in Thuringia.

"Looking back, I can only say that it was an exciting time to accompany the development of the university into an educational and research institution that is recognised throughout Germany. I would like to thank the entire university team for their contribution, as well as the employees of the ministries who have actively supported us in this endeavour. I wish my successor the same good experiences that I have had," emphasises Hans-Wolfgang Köllmann.

Prof Dr Jörg Wagner, President of Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences, also looks back positively on the past 16 years. "Together, we have successfully accompanied many strategic development steps at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences. Over the years, our excellent collaboration has developed into a friendship that will last. I would like to thank Wolfgang Köllmann for his commitment to our university," says Professor Wagner, paying tribute to the Chancellor's past work.

Wolfgang Tiefensee, Thuringia's Minister for Economic Affairs, Science and Digital Society, also presented the company with a certificate of thanks and recognition for its work.

Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences wishes Hans-Wolfgang Köllmann all the best for the future!

On 1 April 2020, Jan Funke, former Head of University Controlling and Personal Assistant to the President, will take over from Hans-Wolfang Köllmann.