03.07.2026 CZS Network CZSonSite/WEIMAR

As part of the CZSvorOrt event series, the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung made a stop in Weimar and tested a new event concept for the first time. Instead of a traditional panel discussion, a stage set designed to resemble a dining room - complete with a sofa, carpet, and table decorations - created an open atmosphere for personal conversations and diverse perspectives.

Guests on stage included, among others, the president of the Bauhaus University Weimar, Prof. Dr. Peter Benz; the mayor of Weimar, Peter Kleine; and the archivist at SCHOTT AG, Judith Hanft. In addition, program managers Dr. Karla Hillerich and Johannes Wimmer presented the work of the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung’s grant team.

Participants in the project “Thuringia Teaches and Learns Sustainably” offered insights into current funded projects, reporting on their inter-university collaboration. In addition, Prof. Dr. Orlando Guntinas-Lichius presented a project from the CZS Breakthroughs funding program, under which he is currently receiving support. The stage program concluded with a conversation with Robert Fetter, who worked for the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung for many years and is now director of the Institute for Applied Construction Research in Weimar. The event was moderated by Felix Streiter, Executive Director of the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung, and Anna Müller-Trimbusch, Head of Grants and a member of the Executive Board.

Approximately 100 guests from the fields of academia, business, politics, and the foundation sector accepted the invitation to the Maurice-Halbwachs Auditorium at the Bauhaus University Weimar. Following the on-stage program, a reception with a buffet and beverages provided an opportunity for personal exchanges and networking.

The Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung would like to thank all participants and guests for a successful evening and the many inspiring conversations.