Building One Fulbright Community: Reflections on the 2025 Welcome Meeting in Hannover
From October 10–12, 2025, more than 140 Fulbrighters from Germany and the United States gathered in Hannover for the annual German Fulbright Alumni Association’s Welcome Meeting – a weekend that embodied what it truly means to be part of our One Fulbright Community. The event celebrated connection, collaboration, and the power of exchange, while welcoming the newest members of the Fulbright alumni network.
Connecting Across Generations and Programs
With around 80 recent returnees from group programs, 35 Returnees from long-term programs joining other alumni, the weekend served as both a reunion and a moment of renewal. Hosted jointly by the German Fulbright Alumni Association, the event invited participants to strengthen ties across cohorts and to explore how the Fulbright spirit can continue to shape personal growth, professional development, and civic engagement.
From Encounters to Action
The weekend opened with a keynote by Dr. Georg Schütte, CEO of the VolkswagenStiftung, Fulbright alumnus, former Executive Director of Fulbright Germany and Member of the Advisory council of the German Fulbright Alumni Association at the Kestner Gesellschaft who spoke about the transformative power of transatlantic exchange. His words on trust, openness, and dialogue set the tone for the days ahead, reminding participants that meaningful exchange is at the heart of the Fulbright mission.
Saturday’s Fulbright UnConference, facilitated by alumnus Bernd Riedel, gave participants the opportunity to shape the agenda themselves. In 18 distinct sessions, Fulbrighters explored topics ranging from cultural identity and access to nature, to leadership, creativity, and the role of education in shaping inclusive societies. The format’s open and collaborative energy turned the group of returnees into a truly connected Fulbright community.
The afternoon’s Inspirational Talk by alumna Petra Goebel resonated deeply. With authenticity and humor, she spoke about embracing change, leading with purpose, and how the Fulbright experience can influence one’s personal and professional path.
Giving Back and Growing Together
Sunday’s focus on “Giving Back” highlighted the essence of the Fulbright mission: to create lasting impact by sharing knowledge, supporting others, and staying engaged. Three-time Fulbrighter Prof. Dr. Jeffrey Peck, President of the Friends and Sponsors of the Fulbright Program (VFF), opened the day by emphasizing the importance of alumni involvement in sustaining and enriching the community.
A dynamic series of Career Development Workshops, led by an inspiring group of alumni experts, offered participants concrete tools and real-world insights to advance both their professional and personal journeys. Alumnus Tuğrul Aras guided participants through the essentials of Personal Branding, exploring how to communicate one’s strengths with authenticity and confidence. Alumna Dr. Monika Blaschke shared hands-on strategies for crafting impactful CVs and navigating application processes, while alumna Alexandra (Allie) Drexler provided thoughtful advice on taking first steps in career building after returning from a Fulbright experience. Alumna Petra Goebel, drawing on her leadership role at Messe Berlin, delivered an engaging workshop on Career Planning and Leadership, inspiring participants to lead with purpose and courage. Meanwhile, alumna Tabea Rauscher introduced the art of Storytelling as a Career Tool, illustrating how narratives can powerfully shape professional identity and direction.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Welcome Meeting demonstrated that the strength of the Fulbright network lies in its shared commitment to dialogue, empathy, and giving back to our community. As new alumnae and alumni join the community, and long-time members continue to give back, the vision of One Fulbright Community grows ever clearer – a global network united by the belief that understanding and collaboration can change the world.
