The IRC Building at Constructor University

25 Years of Decision Making

Celebrating 25 Years of Constructor University

Our 25^th year anniversary is a year-long celebration of what makes CU great, and an opportunity to highlight the impact Constructors have had on global discourse, research and our connection to the local community. By marking this incredible milestone, we aim to deepen our ties to our alumni, connect with the broader global academic community, foster self-identity with faculty and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Long before it became a university, this campus was a witness to history, shaped by conflict and recovery, uncertainty and hope – each phase a reminder that places, like people, can be reimagined. The decision to build a university here was not made in isolation; it was the culmination of decades of transformation.

Chancellor Turgut Tülü

25th Anniversary Message

To truly understand where we are going, we must first understand how far we’ve come

To do this, we are highlighting the past 25 years of decision making at Constructor University: by those who have come before us, those who are shaping the future of academia and those who will lead the charge into a new tomorrow. In 2026, we are celebrating the past 25 years of decisions made by faculty, students and visionaries alike to put CU on the global academic map.

A Place of War: Anti-Aircraft Barracks of the Reichswehr (1936-1945)

A Place of War: Anti-Aircraft Barracks of the Wehrmacht (1936-1945)

Our campus grounds were originally conceived and constructed as an army barracks by the Nazis beginning as early as 1936. The military purpose was to build up aerial capacities in Northern Germany, which back then could only have one pragmatic background: going to war with the world.

A Hub of New Beginnings: Displaced Persons Camp (1948-1952)

After the war, Flakkaserne Grohn was first used as the military headquarters of the Bremen enclave, but was converted into a displaced persons camp organized by the IRO (International Refugee Organization) and administered by US Army forces. Over a million forced laborers, liberated concentration camp prisoners and German emigrants were processed on their way to Bremerhaven, leaving Europe to begin life anew.

Suburban Mediocrity meets WWIII: Bundeswehr Army Barracks for the Cold War (1955-1999)

During the Cold War, the campus returned to its militaristic roots, this time for the newly established Bundeswehr. Despite the constant fear of the atomic bomb, the site experienced a time of provinciality and calm, which was only interrupted by demonstrations of the peace movement in the 1980s. After the collapse of communism, relocation of the supply unit to the nearby Garlstedt barracks brought an end to the military presence in Grohn.

A University is Born: IUB (2001-2006)

With the end of the Cold War came new beginnings. After protracted discussions, a decision was finally made to establish the International University Bremen. It would be the first private full university (Volluniversität) in Germany — a bold transformation, not only of the place itself, but also a massive innovation in Germany's system of higher education.

Gaining International Renown: Jacobs University (2007-2022)

The university established itself as an internationally renowned institution with excellent research and innovative approaches in higher education. However, the university continued to face funding challenges. Thanks to a generous contribution by the Jacobs Foundation, the university, thereafter renamed Jacobs University Bremen, was kept afloat. The public-private model soon came to an end, as both the Jacobs Foundation and the Freie Hansestadt Bremen declined to fund the university further.

Constructing the Future: CU (since 2022)

After a prolonged search for an investor, Constructor University was born. The shift to Constructor University also marked the end of any financial support through the public sector. The newly founded university set its sights on becoming an innovative institution on the cutting edge of scientific and educational development, focused on rapid growth and self-sustained financial stability.

Legacy & Leadership: 25 Years of Constructing the Future

The decisions made by founders who imagined a new kind of university in Bremen – one built on global collaboration and advancing knowledge and technology to make learning more effective for all. The researchers who pursued the questions others overlooked, empowering the next generation of scientists, professionals, and leaders. The students who crossed borders to shape their futures. And the Constructors whose early work laid the foundations of research and innovation that continue to define our community today.

Raymond O. “Ronny” Wells Jr.

“Ronny” is currently the Chairman of the Board of the Constructor University Foundation of America, a Distinguished Professor of Mathematics at Constructor University, and an Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at Rice University. An Alexander von Humboldt Prize winner, “Ronny” is often referred to as “employee zero” and a founding father of International University Bremen (IUB), where from 2001 to 2005, he served as IUB’s first Vice President for External Affairs.

Malcolm Gillis

Stephen Malcolm Gillis (1940–2015) was the 6th President of Rice University (1993–2004), known for expanding research, strengthening international partnerships, and supporting innovative higher-education models. He played a crucial founding role in establishing International University Bremen, serving on early boards and shaping its academic concept and global orientation.

Henning Scherf

Dr. Henning Scherf, a prominent SPD politician, served as Mayor and President of the Senate of the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen from 1995 to 2005. A long-standing advocate for education and research, he was instrumental in mobilizing governmental and civic support for the founding and early development of International University Bremen.

Reimar Lüst

Professor Reimar Lüst (1923–2020) was one of Germany’s most distinguished scientists, known for his leadership at the Max Planck Society, the European Space Agency (ESA), and his influential role in international science policy. As one of the most prominent scientific supporters of IUB, he contributed credibility, guidance, and high-level advocacy during the university’s foundation phase.

Fritz Schaumann

A lifelong public servant, Fritz Schaumann (1946-2017) served nearly a decade as Germany’s Deputy Minister for Education and Research. He played a key role in securing political support for the founding of IUB and became the university’s first President (1999–2006), guiding it through its formative years.

Joachim Treusch

Dr. Joachim Treusch, an accomplished physicist and research leader, served on the university’s Board of Governors and later became President of Jacobs University (2006–2012). He was essential in bringing Klaus Jacobs on board, helping secure the transformative philanthropic investment that reshaped the university’s future.

Klaus J. Jacobs

Klaus J. Jacobs (1936–2008), a Swiss-German entrepreneur and philanthropist, was widely known for his leadership in global food and coffee industries and for major philanthropic contributions to youth development and education. Following his €200 million donation in 2006, the university was renamed Jacobs University in his honor.

Dr. Serg Bell

Businessman, entrepreneur and investor, Dr. Bell and the Constructor Group acquired the university in 2022. Driven by the global advancement of science and education globally, he seeks to realize this vision through various initiatives. He is founder of Acronis and currently the Vice Chairman of the Board of Governors of Constructor University.

Celebrate the 25-Year Anniversary with Us

25 Years of CU: A Historical Retrospective

In September 2026, Constructor University will proudly celebrate its 25-Year Anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, we are preparing a special historical exhibition in 2026 that will be hosted in the newly minted Community Hall on campus. With the support of distinguished historian Rüdiger Ritter, we are creating an historical archive. We welcome sponsors to support our project that emphasizes the history of the campus as well as its role in Bremen-Nord.

Funding needed: €50,000

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25 Years of CU: Anniversary Book

Constructor University turns 25 in 2026, but the campus itself goes back nearly a century. To due this rich history justice, we plan to issue a 25th anniversary commemorative book highlighting the unique history of our university and its campus.
Image: Arvids Hammers Collection, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, Springfield, IL

Funding needed: €20,000

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25-Year Anniversary Documentary

A full-length documentary is being produced with Dr. Ritter and the Constructor University Multimedia team. The film will feature interviews of faculty, staff, alumni and witnesses that can speak to the history of this place. Sponsors are gratefully acknowledged in the film.

Funding needed: €15,000

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Looking Back at 25 Years of Generosity, Partnership, and a World of Possibilities

Dear Supporters,
As we reflect on 25 years of Constructor University in 2026, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for your continued support – through donations, sponsorship, and engagement.
Your contributions, great and small, have played a vital role in advancing research, teaching and innovation at International University Bremen/Jacobs University/Constructor University.
Because of your commitment, we create meaningful opportunities that broaden horizons for students, enable groundbreaking discoveries and lay the ground for solutions that impact the world. Your contributions represent more than financial support; they are a powerful expression of trust in the transformative power of education and research, and a shared belief in what we can achieve together.
On behalf of our students, researchers, faculty, and staff, thank you for being part of our journey over the past 25 years. With your continued partnership, we look forward to shaping the next chapter of excellence and impact at Constructor University in Bremen.

The Donor Roll does not include all companies, foundations, individuals, and institutions whose courage and commitment have supported — and continue to support — this unique institution founded in Bremen 25 years ago. Step by step, we fill the donor roll with statements from friends & supporters of the past or present of our university.
Developments in private education — globally, across Europe, and in Germany — demonstrate the important role private institutions play in complementing public colleges and universities. The vision shared by the founders of IUB/JUB/CUB 25 years ago – that knowledge is key for our society & pioneers in educational concepts are a necessity for it – is still our mission today.

Over the past years, we have developed an excellent relationship with Constructor University, based on trust and communication. In the future, we shall continue to support young people together. The transdisciplinary and intercultural concept of the still relatively young, rapidly growing university in the north of Bremen not only offers an excellent academic education, but also conveys skills and values for a conscious, tolerant, and peaceful coexistence worldwide. Our aim is that young people will leverage the gained knowledge, competence, and experiences for the benefit and development of their home countries.

Rumbidzai Maunze – Head of Scholarships and Educational Development, SOS-Kinderdörfer weltweit e.V.

Wolfgang-Ritter-Stiftung and Constructor University share a long-standing partnership built on a common belief: that diverse perspectives and academic excellence drive progress. Constructor University brings together talented people from around the world to learn, research, and exchange ideas. That spirit closely reflects the Foundation’s DNA of fostering better ideas for shared progress.

Alexander Witte – Board Member, Wolfgang-Ritter-Stiftung

It has been a visionary idea for Bremen from Prof. Ronnie Wells, Prof. Fritz Schaumann, and the Bremen Senate. The Unternehmensgruppe Messerknecht supported the first office of IUB, at Bürgermeister-Smidt-Straße in Bremen, with the donation of the first IT Hardware and Network installation for the new founded university.

Stefan Messerknecht – Managing Partner, Unternehmensgruppe Messerknecht

Unsere Hansestadt braucht starke Bildungsinstitutionen – die Constructor University steht für Internationalität, Innovationen und hohen wissenschaftlichen Anspruch und sie bringt junge Talente aus der ganzen Welt nach Bremen. Für die Sparkasse Bremen ist das eine Investition in die Zukunft unseres Standorts, denn hier entstehen Ideen, Netzwerke und Unternehmertum, die unsere Wirtschaft und unsere Gesellschaft langfristig stärken. Deshalb unterstützen wir dieses Engagement.

Dr. Tim Nesemann – Vorstandsvorsitzender, Die Sparkasse Bremen AG

Since its inception, the Foundation has dedicated itself to furthering the exchange between the University and its US alumni and friends. We are proud to look back on 25 years of supporting the University, students, and our wider community, and we hope to strengthen our engagement further in the years to come.

Kevin Dominik Korte – President of the Board, Constructor University Foundation of America

HAORI-Stiftung is a foundation with Hanseatic roots based in Bremen. In keeping with a tradition of responsibility, reliability, and foresight, we are committed to promoting research and science, as well as projects in the medical field. Our goal is to provide lasting impetus and support developments that contribute to the long-term well-being of society.
Our collaboration with Prof. Dr. Brix and her team allows us to look to the future with optimism.

Joachim Lorentz – Chairman of the Foundation Board, HAORI-Stiftung

Science for the future – the engine for a better tomorrow – now for 25 years in our direct neighborhood! Thank you, all the best – we have the same motivation for Science and a better environment!

Peter Hoffmeyer – Chairman of the Board, Nehlsen AG

Gleistein is committed to actively supporting innovation and new developments in science and technology. As a company based in Bremen-Nord, we support academic research projects and offer internship opportunities for top students at Constructor University Bremen. By engaging with academic research and fostering collaboration, we aim to drive progress that benefits both industry and society.

Thomas Schlätzer – Managing Director, Gleistein GmbH

A proud supporter of the Constructor University since its inception, Hans-Christoph Bömers grew up in the house adjacent to the campus – today known as Bömers Park – and regarded the transformation of the former military property into a world-class university as one of his greatest joys. He generously supported the university, both financially and by enthusiastically hosting exchange students.
In the name of his three daughters, Katharina Bömers-Muller, Janika Bömers, and Tania Bömers, and his wife, Kornelie Bömers-Emminghaus.

In grateful memory of Hans-Christoph Bömers (1932 – 2024)

Eine Investition in die Zukunft der ambitionierten Studenten der Constructor University verspricht die beste Rendite.

Martin Naber – Vorstand, Conrad Naber Stiftung

In line with the vision of the founder, Joachim Armerding, the foundation places particular emphasis on supporting educational institutions with a strong professional and technical focus. Given the international character of today’s student community and the global network of the HANSA-FLEX Group – headquartered in Bremen – the foundation actively encourages broad-based educational support with both local and international impact.

Thorsten Armerding – Member of the Executive Board, HANSA-FLEX Stiftung

As a guest lecturer in May 2025 for the “Entrepreneurship & Innovation” course, run by Professor Sven Voelpel, and as a member of the judging panel for the final presentations, I found the international mix of students to be a great asset to the discussions. As an advocate of the view that “financial education” is a key cornerstone of a person’s life, I seek to engage with young people in order to pass on my knowledge, which is based on a solid banking education, a long-standing international career in investment banking, and start-up experience.

Birgit Nonnenprediger – Generationen Finanzcoach, Switzerland

Constructor University represents a unique opportunity for us to bring international talent directly to Bremen, sustainably strengthening the diversity and innovative power of our region. As a company that relies on highly qualified professionals, we value the university as a bridge between academic excellence and real-world practice – giving us access to outstanding international graduates who enrich our teams. We are particularly passionate about helping young people take their first steps into professional life and offering them a future here in Bremen. Supporting this connection between university, business, and city is, for us, not only an investment in our company's future, but in the entire Bremen region.

Oliver Groß – CEO, Nehlsen AG

Two Graduated Students Hug – Picture from the Back

Courage & Responsibility: Bold decisions define progress

From a daring experiment to an international hub of education and research, Constructor University has always been shaped by courageous, intentional decisions. Buildings once meant for division now host dialogue, discovery, and collaboration – evidence of a community that sees potential where others see limits. Our culture is one of informed decision-making, tested and refined as new knowledge emerges.

For 25 years, these choices – bold and quiet, personal and collective – have built a legacy of learning, discovery, partnership, and resilience. Through name changes and leadership shifts, our essence has remained the same: a place inspired by, run by, and dedicated to creating Constructors. Like our mascot Joana, we remain adaptable, resilient, and strongest when moving together.

The next 25 years will demand decisions that matter – for CU, for science, and for the global communities we serve. In a unique ecosystem of technology, capital, and knowledge, we choose to lead, not watch from the sidelines. Leadership is a decision – and one we commit to again and again.

So here’s to the choices that brought us here, and to the ones that will define what comes next.