Topics include sustainability, diversity, responsible leadership, and social participation. The aim of the award is to highlight academic work that extends far beyond the academic context and provides concrete impulses for a better future.

The prizes are made possible through the generous support of SRH, as well as this year additionally by EBS alumnus Sebastian Schels and Ratisbona GmbH. Mr. Schels also served on the jury that selected this year’s awardees. The jury consisted of Sebastian Schels (CEO of Ratisbona and EBS alumnus), Prof. em. Richard Raatzsch (Ethics, EBS), Prof. Dr. Emanuel Towfigh (Professor of Public Law and Deputy Dean, EBS), and Prof. Dr. Karin Kreutzer (Professor of Social Business, Deputy Dean of Research, and Director of the Impact Institute).

This year, five awardees were selected:

Dr. Alexander Gleixner was honored for his dissertation, which focuses on the equality promise enshrined in the German Basic Law. His research demonstrates how citizens can effectively claim their rights to non-discriminatory administrative procedures, making a significant contribution to the protection of vulnerable groups and the strengthening of the rule of law.

Hanna Charlotte Kölker received the award for her outstanding bachelor’s thesis on the integration of people with disabilities into the labor market. Her work provides concrete recommendations on how companies can actively shape inclusion not only as a social responsibility but also as part of sustainable development.

Philipp Bäurer was recognized for his master’s thesis, which deals with resistance to decarbonization in organizations. He examines why companies block change even when knowledge and resources are available and provides valuable guidance on how transformation processes can be successfully implemented.

Jan Weyland received the award for his bachelor’s thesis on sustainable meat alternatives. His research outlines ways to feed a growing global population without further exacerbating the ecological and ethical burdens of conventional meat production.

Dr. Vera Schwarzmann was honored for her dissertation on hybrid organizations operating between nonprofits, social enterprises, and social movements. Her work demonstrates how voluntary engagement, international partnerships, and the building of movements can drive social change.

EBS Universität and the EBS Impact Institute warmly congratulate the awardees on their outstanding work and their valuable contribution to promoting social impact. Once again this year, the SRH Social Impact Thesis Awards highlight EBS Universität’s commitment to excellent, socially relevant research.

Image (clockwise from top left): Philipp Bäurer, Hanna Charlotte Kölker, Jan Weyland, Dr. Vera Schwarzmann, Dr. Alexander Gleixner