News
17.02.2021

Message to our community from Henrik Enderlein, President of the Hertie School

Today, I tendered my resignation as President of the Hertie School, effective 1 March 2021.

Since I was diagnosed with advanced cancer (melanoma) in August 2020, my health has steadily improved and I am confident that I can soon restart some of my activities. But the path to full recovery is long. My current health status and the outlook of my cancer therapy for the months and years ahead leave me no choice: during my recovery, I will not be able to provide the full-time commitment, energy, dedication and leadership which the Presidency of the Hertie School needs and deserves. I regret this turn of events, but the decision is the right one for the Hertie School and for me personally.

I will stay at the Hertie School and the Jacques Delors Centre as a regular professor. I look forward to returning to some of my research, teaching and think-tank activities shortly. But the return will be gradual and on a part-time basis. During the recovery, my primary focus will be on my health and on my family.

I am delighted that my deputy, Professor Mark Hallerberg, will be named Acting President by our Boards. I wish him and the entire Hertie School Leadership all the very best. The search for my successor will start soon, in accordance with our statutes.

I am deeply grateful to all colleagues in the faculty and administration of the Hertie School for their fantastic support over the past years. I thank our students, researchers and alumni for the many conversations, discussions and inspiring moments we have shared. Very special thanks go to my wonderful colleagues in the Hertie School Leadership team and the truly outstanding staff in the Office of the President. I thank the Hertie Foundation and the Boards of the Hertie School for their trust and continued support. I could not have imagined a better and more supportive context for my Presidency.

The Hertie School is an impressive university and home to a wonderful community. It has been an immense honour and privilege for me to serve as its President.

I thank everyone for their thoughts and support. 

Henrik Enderlein