Aside from purely academic awards, the title of Honorary Senator is one of the highest distinctions presented by WU. It is reserved for personalities who have provided extraordinary support to WU over many years. In his capacity as a member of the board of REWE International AG, Marcel Haraszti cultivated very close ties to his alma mater over the last few years, especially through continuous financial support for the “Lernen macht Schule” volunteering program, which brings WU students together with children and teenagers from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. In her words of welcome, WU Rector Edeltraud Hanappi-Egger thanked Marcel Haraszti and REWE International AG for this strong commitment: “As a public university with a limited budget, we are very grateful to REWE and Marcel Haraszti for their continued support. Over ten years ago, we launched our joint ‘Lernen macht Schule’ program to strengthen education and integration in Austria. Without your generous financial support, it wouldn’t have been possible to keep the program running for so many years and help thousands of children and teenagers.”

Laudatory speech by Caritas Vienna Managing Director Klaus Schwertner

Together with WU and REWE, Caritas Vienna is also involved in the “Lernen macht Schule” program as a partner organization. It was therefore very fitting that Klaus Schwertner, managing director of Caritas Vienna, gave the laudatory speech to congratulate WU’s new Honorary Senator. “With their commitment and dedication, Marcel Haraszti and the entire REWE team clearly show that business acumen and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive. On the contrary, these two qualities are closely related. No matter if it’s the ‘Lernen macht Schule’ program, the pandemic, or the war in Ukraine: REWE and Marcel Haraszti provide hands-on support and help people in need quickly and efficiently. For thousands of people, this support makes a real difference. So is the distinction we’re presenting today deserved? It is, and more.

Education is key for Marcel Haraszti

Marcel Haraszti did not seek the limelight for himself during the evening. Instead, he emphasized the importance of the ‘Lernen macht Schule’ project, which his company supports. “Giving back to the community, especially by helping kids and teens, is an important part of REWE Group’s corporate culture. This means that the ‘Lernen macht Schule’ project is very close to our heart. Education is a key to social participation, equal opportunities, and the future as a whole. I’m proud that in Austria, we at REWE Group and our partners are helping to make this project thrive even during difficult times.”

Contact:
Cornelia Moll
Press Relations Officer
Tel: + 43-1-31336-4977
Email: cornelia.moll@wu.ac.at