Festive honour for Prof. Dr. Katrin Winkler
Kempten – Prof. Dr Katrin Winkler, Head of Kempten Business School and Professor at Kempten University of Applied Sciences, has been awarded the prestigious Johanna Loewenherz Prize in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the advancement of women and gender equality in academic and professional life. The festive award ceremony took place in Rhineland-Palatinate, in the district of Neuwied, on 16 November.
23.11.2023
Prof Dr Winkler, who has worked at Kempten University of Applied Sciences since 2009, has established herself as an expert in the fields of digital education, transformation and the advancement of women in science. She emphasises: “It is not enough to simply understand the rules of the male-dominated business world; what is needed is the courage to actively change them. Women must dare to be visible and actively shape their networks.”
The Johanna Loewenherz Prize, named after the 19th century women’s rights activist and politician, is awarded annually to individuals who are particularly committed to the advancement of women. Prof Dr Winkler comments on the award: “It encourages me in my efforts to promote equality and a culture of cooperation and respect.”
The academic, who lives in Buchholz, was unanimously selected by the Neuwied district committee on the recommendation of the CDU and SPD for the prize, which is endowed with 3,000 euros. Professor Winkler’s work at Kempten University of Applied Sciences includes her role as the central representative for equal opportunities for women in the Faculty of Business Administration. As head of the Institute for Digital Transformation, she and her team conduct research on topics relating to digitalisation, leadership and women in management positions. Her work in the field of digital education and transformation is a shining example of innovative and future-orientated teaching. At Kempten Business School, which she has headed since 2021, she has expanded the range of courses on offer and placed a focus on diversity and, in particular, targeted further training for women. The Women in Leadership online course will be launched for the third time in April 2024 and supports women on their path to a management position.
Prof Dr Winkler is also a member of the Supervisory Board of aconso AG and is committed to diversity here too. “Digitalisation makes it easier for me to organise my work flexibly and efficiently,” she explains. Finally, she emphasises the importance of networks and mentorship for women: “Success doesn’t come from competition, but from mutual support and encouragement.”