Christmas speech by the President
12/16/2025A year characterised by successes and challenges is drawing to a close. In his Christmas address, JMU President Paul Pauli thanks the university family and calls for cohesion.
In his annual Christmas address, University President Professor Paul Pauli looks back on "a year full of encounters, changes and challenges - and at the same time a year that has shown how strong we are at JMU when we stand together."
A year that was characterised by academic and athletic successes, new study programmes, international cooperation and a lively exchange between the university, business, politics, culture and society.
The President describes 2025 as a "key structural year" for JMU. The approval of two Clusters of Excellence made it possible to apply for the title of University of Excellence - a process that has produced a valuable shared vision - "Empowering for Change" - and will accompany the university into the new year.
University as a place of cohesion
Pauli addressed his thanks to the entire university family, whose strength he sees in cohesion: "In a world full of conflict and tension, universities are places of dialogue and freedom. Education, research and the transfer of knowledge to society are our tasks - and our responsibility," said Pauli.
To the Christmas speech ( German with English subtitles)
