University Assembly Votes to Remove Chancellor from Office
The Bauhaus-Universität Weimar University Assembly voted in favour of removing Dr. Horst Henrici as Chancellor of the University on 22 June 2026 with the majority required in accordance with the Thuringian Higher Education Act (ThürHG). His term in office ended at the close of that same day. Prior to the vote, Dr. Henrici was given the chance to speak during a hearing.
Dr. Horst Henrici began his term as Chancellor of the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar on 1 January 2025. During his more than eleven years in office, he was a member of the Presidential Board and was responsible for finance, human resources, legal affairs, and property management. During his time in office, numerous investments were made in the University’s physical infrastructure, including the renovation and development of the main University buildings, the completion of new construction projects, and support for many organisational developments. The University also faced numerous challenges, especially during the Coronavirus pandemic.
The President of the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Prof. Peter Benz, paid tribute to the Chancellor’s many years of service: »The decision made today marks the end of a more than eleven-year tenure as Chancellor of the Bauhaus-
Universität Weimar. Dr. Horst Henrici has guided the University through numerous developments and taken on leadership responsibilities. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to him for his many years of service. I wish him all the best for the future.«
Dr. Horst Henrici Chancellor concluded: »For many years, the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar was more than just a workplace to me. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and for the collaboration with the many dedicated individuals who support this University. I wish the university courage, solidarity, and success in the tasks that lie ahead.«
The Bauhaus-Universität Weimar will carry on with the measures it has initiated to stabilise its financial situation and continue developing its management instruments. Until a successor is appointed, the duties of the Chancellor will be performed by a temporary replacement. This arrangement includes a planned team of experts, made up of university partners and possibly supplemented by external consultants.
Background
Within the context of discussions on the financial situation at the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, issues of responsibility, communication, and strategic management were also discussed by internal University committees. Particular attention was paid to the transparency of internal communication, decision-making processes, and trust in the University Directorate’s ability to act. Within this context, the University Assembly discussed and voted on the removal of the Chancellor and the President from office during their meeting on 22 June 2026. The University Assembly voted in favour of the removal of Dr. Horst Henrici with the majority required according to the Thuringian Higher Education Act (ThürHG). The University Assembly voted against the removal of the President from office. Prof. Peter Benz will remain in office.
»The discussions held over the past few months have shown that there is a need for dialogue and that trust needs to be earned anew through transparency, participation, and reliable communication. Our real work begins now: Together with the governing bodies, the faculties, the staff, and the students, we want to tackle these upcoming challenges and ensure that the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar is prepared for the future«, emphasised Prof. Benz in response to the outcome of the University Assembly.