Certificate Ceremony and Farewell Celebration at the PharmaCampus Münster
On April 29, the University of Münster’s PharmaCampus hosted the formal farewell ceremony for pharmacy graduates who successfully passed the Second Pharmaceutical Examination – an event that has become a cherished tradition in Münster over many years.
A Special Day for Graduates
Even before the academic ceremony began, candidates gathered for the traditional group photo in front of the PharmaCampus. The large lecture hall was nearly full – a clear sign of the significance this day holds for students, families, and friends alike.
Welcome Address by Prof. Dr. Andreas Hensel
Prof. Dr. Andreas Hensel, Chair of the Examination Board, opened the ceremony on behalf of the University of Münster. In his speech, he highlighted the excellent performance record of Münster’s pharmacy program and emphasized that a university education is more than just the accumulation of facts. Critical thinking, personal responsibility, and creativity are key competencies that enable future pharmacists to navigate their professional lives with scientific insight.
Greetings from the Faculty
Dr. Hauke Engler, representing the Dean of Studies of the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, praised the high quality and efficiency of the pharmaceutical education in Münster. He encouraged the graduates to maintain their scientific mindset throughout their professional careers – and to always remain curious and open to new knowledge.
Keynote Lecture on Botanical Food Supplements
In his keynote speech titled “Botanicals: Dietary Supplements and Phytopharmaceuticals”, Dr. Matthias Lechtenberg (Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology and Phytochemistry) demonstrated how systematic basic research can lead to the development of reliable analytical methods. These methods enable precise characterization of plant-based products. Using examples such as broccoli, saffron, passionflower, and blueberry supplements, he highlighted sometimes significant quality issues in food supplements, whereas phytopharmaceuticals regulated under the German Medicines Act consistently showed high-quality standards.
His conclusion: Only valid and high-quality analytics allow for reliable scientific conclusions – with far-reaching consequences for manufacturers, regulatory authorities, and consumers.
Congratulations from the Chamber of Pharmacists
Sandra Potthast, board member of the Chamber of Pharmacists of Westphalia-Lippe, extended congratulations to the graduates on behalf of the Chamber and presented the wide range of resources and support services that the future pharmacists will be able to access throughout their careers.
Awards for Outstanding Achievements
Sandra Potthast presented the certificates with the words: "I would like to congratulate you on these great successes and wish all graduates a successful start to their careers."
Clara Marie Meiners completed the second state examination with five ‘sehr gut’ grades. This outstanding achievement was honoured with the Foundation Prize of the Westphalia-Lippe Pharmacy Foundation. Lea Steinke, Benjamin Gebhardt and Julian Franke were also delighted to receive a recognition voucher from the Westphalia-Lippe Chamber of Pharmacists for achieving four ‘sehr gut’ and one ‘gut’ in their exams.
A Student's Perspective
In a heartfelt speech, Finn Kortenbusch reflected on the shared experience of the pharmacy program. Alongside the challenges and exam pressures, he highlighted the many positive and memorable moments. Short video messages from internship supervisors brought familiar faces back to life and evoked warm memories of the past years.
Presentation of Certificates
The ceremonial highlight was the presentation of certificates to the graduates by Prof. Hensel.
Closing and Reception
To conclude the event, Prof. Dr. Denise Steiner addressed the new pharmacists with words of encouragement. She shared selected remarks from the faculty and urged the graduates to carry their acquired knowledge into professional practice with curiosity, drive, and confidence.
Following the official ceremony, the evening continued with a champagne reception, culminating in a festive gala dinner – the perfect ending to a special day in an elegant atmosphere.
We extend our warmest congratulations to all graduates and wish them all the best for the future!
Prof. Dr. A. Hensel, Universität Münster
