We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Wolfgang Preis, who left us far too soon and unexpectedly on April 3, 2018.
Professor Preis played a pivotal role in the establishment and development of the Social Work degree programme. On April 1, 1992—even before the official founding of Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences—he began his work at our University and, together with Professor Hermann Heitkamp, was one of the founding fathers of the Department of Social Work. For 25 years, he served as a professor of social work, demonstrating tremendous dedication to teaching and to his students, as well as authoring numerous scholarly publications and participating in university self-governance. For many years, Wolfgang Preis served as a member of the Faculty Council, program director, and a driving force behind curricular reform processes. Throughout this time, the trained social worker remained true to his convictions regarding the quality of Social Work education, particularly with regard to the integration of theory and practice.
His students and colleagues mourn the loss of an exceptionally dedicated colleague. He will be remembered as a role model for his commitment to the interests of students and socially disadvantaged people.
Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.
Prof. Friedrich Albrecht
Rector