125 Years of Management, Economics and Social Sciences – The Anniversary 2026
Today’s ideas. Tomorrow’s impact.
2026, the Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences at the University of Cologne will celebrate its 125th anniversary. This special milestone highlights both the faculty’s remarkable historical development and its significance for the present and the future.
As one of the largest and most renowned institutions of its kind, the WiSo Faculty shapes the fields of economics and social sciences – innovative, interdisciplinary, responsible, and with a decisive impact.
This anniversary website serves as the central hub for all activities, events, and communication initiatives throughout the anniversary year. Here, visitors will find up-to-date information, programme overviews, and insights into the faculty’s history and future.
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A Look Back: 125 Years of Science, Impact and Transformation
The roots of the WiSo Faculty date back to the founding of the Cologne School of Commerce on 16 April 1901 – the historical origin of today’s faculty. Since then, it has evolved into an interdisciplinary centre in which business administration, economics, social sciences and political science jointly shape research and public debate.
The jubilee year will feature key events that link the faculty’s past and future, showcasing the diversity of perspectives, people and topics.
1. Anniversary Opening – 16 April 2026
Venue: WiSo Building (WiSo-Hochhaus) Time: 5:00–9:00 pm
The ceremonial anniversary opening marks the official start of the jubilee year. With keynote talks on the 125-year history, the development of the faculty buildings, current academic perspectives, and a joint get-together, the evening will focus on identity, exchange and future orientation.
The opening event sets the tone for all subsequent anniversary activities under the claim: “Today’s ideas. Tomorrow’s impact.”
2. Lecture Series in Summer 2026
Following the opening event, a scientific lecture series will address current issues in economics, politics and society. These formats offer insights into the faculty’s interdisciplinary research strengths and make academic knowledge accessible to the wider public.
Objectives of the lecture series:
Exchange between academia, politics, business and civil society
Presentation of current research and innovative approaches
Science communication in the spirit of social responsibility
Selected highlights will be presented again at the Open Day.
3. Anniversary Highlight: Open Day – 15 October 2026
Venue: WiSo Building and additional campus areas Time: 2:00–00:00 pm
The major Open Day will be the highlight of the anniversary year. In the newly refurbished WiSo Building, guests will experience the faculty in all its dimensions – lively, open, interdisciplinary and collaborative.
Programme Overview
2:00–2:30 pm – Admission & first activities Welcome in the foyer, start of hands-on activities and exhibition points
2:30–3:30 pm – Festive opening in Lecture Hall I Welcome addresses, greetings, award ceremonies
3:30–5:30 pm – “WiSo Fair” Interactive activities throughout the building, including:
Campus tours including rooftop access
Repeat sessions of selected highlights from the lecture series
Guides for the chronicle exhibition
Hands-on science (information stands, short lectures, experiments)
Activities for children and families
5:30–7:00 pm – Lecture & panel discussion A panel exploring impact and responsibility in the economic and social sciences – further details to follow
7:00–9:00 pm – Get-together Networking, music and continuation of activities
9:00–00:00 pm – Anniversary Party Party in the WiSo foyer and rooftop venue
The Open Day brings together people, scholarship and community – and forms the grand finale of the anniversary year. Any updates and additions will be announced here.
125 years of the WiSo Faculty mean 125 years of ideas, research and people who have had a lasting impact on our society. For us, this anniversary is not only a moment to look back, but above all a step forward. We are celebrating the diversity of our disciplines, the courage to innovate, and the strong sense of community that distinguishes our faculty. Together with students, staff, alumni and partners, we want to use this anniversary year to showcase what makes the WiSo strong today and what it can achieve tomorrow. I warmly invite everyone to be part of this special year and to help shape the history of the WiSo.
The 125th anniversary strengthens identity, visibility and collaboration – both within the faculty and beyond.
What Makes the Anniversary Special:
We warmly invite you to help shape the anniversary:
For members of the WiSo Faculty Support the organisation, contribute your ideas or take part in activities and events. Every perspective counts – because our anniversary is a collaborative project.
For external partners and alumni Maintain dialogue with us, share your expertise and experiences, and participate in discussions, panels or knowledge-transfer formats. Your contribution strengthens the bridge between academia, business, politics and society.
For interested members of the public Take part in our events, rediscover the WiSo Faculty and engage in conversation with researchers and students. We are opening our doors – and look forward to welcoming you.
Whether through participation, dialogue or active involvement: you are warmly invited to experience the anniversary and to help shape the future of the WiSo Faculty. Stay tuned for everything we have planned to mark this special occasion!
