The Hertie alum is a directly elected member of the Rhineland-Palatinate Landtag, representing Ludwigshafen and bringing local perspectives into state politics.
Alumni in Focus regularly highlights one Hertie alum, who shares their personal and professional journeys, reflecting on their unique experiences at Hertie and beyond. Through these features, we celebrate their achievements, learn from their experiences, and inspire potential Hertians.
This time, we spoke with Raymond Höptner, 2025 graduate of our Master of Public Policy (MPP), who quickly translated his studies into political impact, moving from local leadership in his hometown of Ludwigshafen to becoming one of the youngest representatives in the Rhineland-Palatinate Landtag. He reflects on how the Hertie School’s practical approach to policymaking shaped his path, the importance of staying connected to citizens, and why courage and early responsibility matter more than a perfect CV.
What drew you to the Hertie School, and how did the school shape your professional journey?
I chose the Hertie School because it treats politics not as an abstract subject, but as a craft you can actually shape. I wanted to understand how decisions are really made, not just in theory. The interdisciplinary environment and the connection between academia and practice gave me exactly that: a solid foundation to take on responsibility myself. Shortly after graduating, I was directly elected to the Landtag of Rhineland-Palatinate. The Hertie School was undoubtedly a key part of my journey.
What have you been up to since graduating from the Hertie School?
In March 2026, I won the constituency of Ludwigshafen directly and am now a member of the Rhineland-Palatinate Landtag for the CDU. Before that, I completed voluntary military service with the German Air Force and served as a neighbourhood representative – a kind of local district mayor – for my neighbourhood Mundenheim in Ludwigshafen, making me the youngest person to hold that role in the city's history. Shaping politics at the local level and now continuing at the state level – for me, that is not a coincidence, but the result of consistent engagement.
What’s a day in your current role like, and what excites you most about your work?
No two days are alike – from committee meetings to citizen conversations and debates in the plenary chamber. What drives me most is staying close to real people and their concerns. Politics only works when it does not happen in an ivory tower. I bring voices from Ludwigshafen to the state capital Mainz, and that is a privilege.
What advice would you give to someone considering Hertie or just starting their journey here?
Use your time at the Hertie School not just for the degree, but for genuine curiosity. Talk to people from different countries and disciplines. And start taking on responsibility early – whether in volunteering, politics or your own community. The courage to act is often more important than the perfect CV.
Ten rapid-fire questions
- Favourite book:The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli
- Favourite movie:Coming to America
- Favourite podcast:Machtwechsel by Robin Alexander and Politico Berlin; Playbook by Gordon Repinski
- Most memorable course at Hertie: Public Service in a Digital Age
- Most influential mentor or role model: My dad
- Top skill that you've recently unlocked: Listening before speaking
- Favourite travel destination: Accra
- Favourite way to stay active or exercise: Running along the Rhine
- Preferred mode of relaxation or self-care activity: Cooking
- Favourite quote or mantra: "Democracy is not self-sustaining; it requires participation, vigilance, and a steadfast commitment to justice." – MLK Jr
Photo credit: Lars Hübner