May 13, 2020
He was one of the founding fathers of Jacobs University, without his foresight and dedication the university might have never existed. Jacobs University mourns the passing of Bernd Hockemeyer, who died at the age of 84.
"Bernd Hockemeyer played an integral role in the founding of our university. As a member of the Board of Governors, he had a lasting impact on our institution. We remember him with great gratitude. Our sympathy goes to his family members," said Professor Antonio Loprieno, President of Jacobs University.
Hockemeyer was an entrepreneur, politician and patron in Bremen. He was born on 27 October 1935 in Bremen. After graduating in 1960 with a degree in business administration, Hockemeyer took over the management of the Gebrüder Thiele company and systematically expanded international business in East Asia, Europe and the USA. Hockemeyer has rendered outstanding services to the common good in numerous functions and honorary posts. From 1975 to 1979, he was a member of the Bremen parliament as a CDU representative, and from 1997 to 2000 he was President of the Chamber of Commerce.
Bernd Hockemeyer was very committed to the city of Bremen all his life. He became an honorary citizen in 2003.