With deep sorrow, the University of the Greater Region joins in mourning the passing of Professor Rudolf Warnking, who played a pivotal role in shaping the University of Applied Sciences of Saarland (htw saar) for many years.
Born in Münster in 1937, Rudolf Warnking moved to Saarland after studying law, where he served as a lecturer and professor in the fields of economics and civil engineering at htw saar. From 1996 to 2000, he led the university as rector, guiding it with vision and driving its cross-border orientation forward.
Through his dedication to Europe and Franco-German cooperation, he made a lasting impact on fostering vibrant international university partnerships and played a key role in shaping the higher education landscape of the Greater Region.
As President of the "Charte" (Charte de coopération universitaire Sar-Lor-Lux-Trêves-Palatinat), he laid the foundation for the values and collaborations that continue to define the UniGR university alliance today.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Franco-German friendship, Professor Warnking was awarded the Ordre national du Mérite. The academic community has lost an exceptional figure whose dedication and vision will remain in our memory—serving as both a guiding light and a symbol of our close collaboration and enduring solidarity.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all members of the htw saar academic community, as well as to his family, colleagues, and all who were close to him. We mourn the loss of an extraordinary individual and will honor his memory with deep respect.