08.07.2026
On Monday, July 6, 2026, twelve international students from Aalen University received their certificates as honorary ambassadors for the East Württemberg region at the Ostalbkreis District Office. The honorees are from Ukraine, Turkey, India, Romania, and South Korea.
Since 2017, the Honorary Ambassador Program has combined language support, regional networking, and volunteer work. Those who complete the multi-stage program—ranging from German language courses to networking meetings and group excursions, all the way to self-organized events on campus—not only acquire intercultural skills but also become deeply rooted in the region and serve as its most credible advocates abroad.
Pascal Cromm, Director of the International Office at Aalen University, kicked off the celebration with a welcoming address outlining the program’s goals: “We aim to achieve three things: First, faster social integration through concrete local engagement. Second, a deeper connection to East Württemberg as a place to live and work. And third, a global alumni network that raises the region’s profile as a place to study. With over 300 honorary ambassadors already on every continent, we are well on our way.”
Rosemarie Francis-Binder, who coordinates the program at Aalen University and presided over the ceremony, emphasized, “Integration succeeds when people are not only welcomed but also actively involved. That is exactly what this program achieves—and the twelve awardees are the best proof of that.”
Dr. Katarzyna Haverkamp presented the certificates on behalf of District Administrator Dr. Joachim Bläse and highlighted the unique composition of this year’s cohort: “The fact that all the honorees come from technical or management-related degree programs shows just how strongly the university’s STEM focus attracts international talent—and how well the Honorary Ambassador Program complements this dynamic.”
The new ambassadors will represent the region in their professional and personal networks, thereby paving the way for future cohorts of international students.
Source: Ostalbkreis District Office, Press Office
