A Lasting Connection to the University
Personal stories. Meaningful connections. Making a difference.
What brings people closer to the University of Mannheim? For some, it is the time they spent studying here. For others, it is inspiring encounters, professional experiences or a strong belief in the power of education and research to shape our future.
Every donation has a story behind it. People who feel connected to the University of Mannheim support its continued growth and development in many different ways. They want to give something back, create new opportunities and help ensure that future generations can benefit from the opportunities that education provides.
In this portrait series, we introduce the people whose commitment helps move the University forward. They share their personal stories, explain their connection to the University and tell us what inspires them to support it through their donations.
Meet the people behind the generosity – discover their stories, their motivations and their vision for the future of the University of Mannheim.
We regularly feature new portraits, showing how personal experiences and lasting connections inspire people to make a difference for the University's future.
A Connection That Has Grown Over Decades
Sometimes, a lifelong connection begins by chance. For Dr. Günter Arheit, it was a job advertisement on the notice board at the University of Mannheim in 1961 that marked the beginning of a relationship that has lasted to this day.
When Dr. Günter Arheit visited the University of Mannheim with a friend in March 1961, he came across a job advertisement that would have a decisive impact on his professional career. He successfully applied for a position at the Public Insurance Institution of the Baden Savings Banks (ÖVA). This marked the beginning of a career spanning more than 38 years, the final 19 of which he spent as Chairman of the Executive Board.
Before long, however, his connection to the University extended far beyond his professional career. In 1977, Dr. Arheit played a key role in founding the Association for the Promotion of Insurance Studies at the University of Mannheim. As a member of its board and later as its chairman, he worked to strengthen research and teaching and to foster closer ties between academia and professional practice. In recognition of his longstanding commitment, he was awarded the title of Honorary Senator of the University of Mannheim in 2000.
Even after retiring, Dr. Arheit continued to feel a strong connection to the University. In 2020, he began supporting the Stiftung Universität Mannheim (University of Mannheim Foundation). In doing so, a circle was completed: what began as a chance encounter had developed over the decades into a lasting bond, one that he continues to nurture through his support.
Dr. Arheit's story shows how a chance encounter can develop into a lifelong connection – and how that connection can inspire a desire to strengthen the University for future generations. Through his donations, he helps support the work of the University of Mannheim Foundation and actively contribute to shaping the University's future.
From Scholarship Recipient to Benefactor
What began as a journey as a scholarship recipient at the University of Mannheim has now brought Dr. Gerhard Metzger back to his alma mater – this time as a supporter. Following a successful career at BASF, he is now giving back as a benefactor, legacy donor and supporter of the Deutschlandstipendium scholarship programme, helping to create opportunities for the next generation of students.
A University That Brings People Together
Dr. Metzger, who was born in Mannheim, has a long-standing connection to the University. He began studying Business Administration in the winter semester of 1978/
Throughout his professional career, Mannheim remained an important point of reference. After retiring, he returned to the city in 2023 and has since been a regular visitor to his university, attending lectures, events and reunions with former and new acquaintances.
Giving Back and Creating Opportunities for the Future
What motivates Dr. Metzger to support the University today? His answer is a personal one: “I owe a great deal to the University. It gave me the knowledge and skills I needed to succeed in my career.”
Through an endowment contribution, funding a Deutschlandstipendium scholarship and a bequest in his will, he wants to give something back and provide young people with opportunities similar to those he was fortunate enough to receive himself.
One of the most rewarding aspects for him is meeting the student who receives his Deutschlandstipendium. Seeing the tangible difference his support makes – giving her more time and flexibility to prepare for her First State Examination – brings him great satisfaction.
Dr. Metzger describes his commitment as a special change of perspective: “You come back to the University and get to experience so many things from a different perspective. No longer as someone receiving support, but now as someone providing it. That gives me great pleasure!”