14. January 2025
Due to diverging
perspectives regarding the strategic direction of the University of Applied Arts Vienna, Petra Schaper Rinkel is resigning
from her position as Rector by mutual agreement with effect from 15 January 2025.
A comprehensive
development plan with ambitious goals and clear steps for the coming years was drawn up in the first few months of the Rectorate's
term of office. The successful negotiation of a high budget for the university's future strategy was the Rector's primary
concern. This milestone was reached in December 2024 with the signing of the performance agreement for the years 2025 to 2027
by the Minister and the Rector.
‘My research has always been dedicated to shaping the future. This
made the joint departure under the motto “Opening up the future” in 2023 all the more hopeful. However, in view of the different
perspectives on the strategic direction of the university, I have decided, in consultation with the University Council, to
resign from office. I would like to thank the many wonderful people I have met at the Angewandte for their support and hope
that they will understand this step.’ - Petra Schaper Rinkel.
The University Council, the Senate
and the Rectorate thank her for the time spent together and wish her all the best for the future.
