A Network for Life
An alumni network in Germany—when marketing professor Hans Raffée launched that idea at the University of Mannheim in 1995, he was a true pioneer. Now, 30 years later, ABSOLVENTUM is the country’s oldest and largest alumni association—and celebrating a major anniversary. On this occasion, President Peter Merten and Managing Director Christian Haas speak about the network’s origins, the challenges of social media, and their ideas for the future.
FORUM: Congratulations on 30 years of ABSOLVENTUM! Tell us—how did the network get started?
Dr. Peter Merten: ABSOLVENTUM was initiated by Professor Hans Raffée, who taught marketing here at the university. His goal was to establish an alumni network modeled after those in the U.S.—one that would bring together graduates of all disciplines and across all generations. He was a gifted networker and a true pioneer. When he came up with the idea, nothing like that existed in Germany. Raffée wanted to bring people together, he wanted them to learn from one another, and he wanted to create a space for meaningful encounters.
FORUM: And what became of that initial idea?
Christian Haas: That early seed quickly grew into something much bigger. Raffée’s original concept has proven its worth and continues to guide our work today. In its first year, ABSOLVENTUM already had over 600 members—today, we’re at more than 7,000. At the beginning, student assistants handled the daily operations. Now, we have a team of seven permanent staff members.
FORUM: In your view, what makes ABSOLVENTUM so special?
Merten: We offer our members a wide range of events from all areas. Aside from our mentoring services, we run a coaching program that supports alumni in their careers. We get together for cultural and sports events, run 46 regional chapters around the world, and host company tours that offer behind-the-scenes insights. We also have our own job portal. Our goal is to keep growing and developing new programs—and to inspire current students to join our network early in their studies.
FORUM: So ABSOLVENTUM isn’t just for graduates, but for current students as well?
Haas: Absolutely! The name ABSOLVENTUM might suggest we focus solely on alumni, but the opposite is true. Our motto is: graduates for students. Through our mentoring program, students gain access to a strong professional network to support their career entry and growth. Mentoring provides expert guidance at every career stage. It’s an incredible opportunity to connect with 7,000 members and benefit from their expertise. First-year students are especially welcome—they can learn so much from older members, make valuable contacts, secure internships, and get real-life advice.
Merten: And another thing is really important to us: ABSOLVENTUM isn’t about fast-tracking careers. It’s about helping everyone find their own path.
FORUM: In the age of LinkedIn and other social networks, do you think alumni organizations still have a future?
Merten: They do. Especially in our digital age, people are craving authentic connections more than ever. And everything we do at ABSOLVENTUM involves real-life interactions. We offer personal contacts—and that’s more lasting, more meaningful, and more valuable than what you get from social media. Of course, we’re active on social platforms as well to reach key audiences. But what our members value most is personal exchange—and that’s one of our greatest strengths.
Haas: I see that every day. There’s something different about networking through ABSOLVENTUM. Our members know they’re likely to get a response—maybe they feel a greater sense of commitment than they would on social media, where it’s easy for messages to go unanswered. What we offer is a well-established, trusted, and sustainable network. The University of Mannheim is an incredible place—our members know that, and they carry its reputation out into the world.
Interview: Jule Leger and Jessica Scholich / August 2025