Celebrating diversity. Raising awareness. – Pride Month at FERNFH
Around the world, June is a month dedicated to diversity, equality, and visibility: Pride Month is a powerful statement of self-determination, acceptance, and the right to be respected as a human being in all one’s facets. This topic is also a central concern at Ferdinand Porsche FERNFH. With the new leadership team of the Committee for Equality, Gender & Diversity (GG&D)—consisting of Mag.a Astrid Braun and Nicole König, BA MSc.—the dialogue surrounding diversity and inclusion is gaining new momentum.
“For me, Pride Month is a symbol of joy in life and self-confidence—but also of the need for visibility,” emphasizes Astrid Braun. “Especially at a time when discrimination and unequal treatment are still a reality in many areas of life, we need this moment of collective attention. And we at FERNFH take this responsibility seriously.”
Nicole König, who brings her experience as a leader in business, academia, and teaching to the table, adds: “Inclusion starts with attitude—not with specific measures. Diversity must not be a short-term trend; rather, it must be reflected in a university’s structures and communication. And we’re on the right track.”
Creating Structures to Put Values into Practice
The GG&D Committee serves as an important platform at FERNFH that is continuously committed to fostering a culture of diversity and equal opportunity. It’s about more than just equal treatment—it’s about actively creating spaces where people feel not only safe, but also seen and heard. “We stand for open doors, ears, and hearts,” says Astrid Braun. “Everyone should feel: I am welcome here.”
The committee is constantly working to further develop existing programs—through projects, exchange initiatives, and close collaboration with students, faculty, and staff. After all, change comes through dialogue.
We Welcome Your Involvement – You Can Help Shape the Future
Any student who would like to get involved in diversity, equity, and queer issues at FERNFH is warmly invited to contribute. “We welcome any kind of input—whether it’s a project idea, feedback, or a critical comment,” says Nicole König. “Diversity thrives on participation, not on directives.”
Studying at FERNFH offers many advantages—especially for queer students. Self-directed learning, flexible scheduling, and a safe digital space make it possible to balance academic studies with personal needs. At the same time, the limited physical presence on campus also poses a challenge when it comes to visibility and community-building.
“We know that queer students sometimes have fewer opportunities to actively network during their studies,” explains Astrid Braun. “That’s why it’s all the more important that we also create opportunities in the digital space that promote this exchange—and clearly and visibly communicate who students can turn to.”
Looking Ahead: Diversity as a Given
And how should FERNFH address diversity in the future? The answer is clear and forceful. “I hope that someday we won’t have to talk about this anymore,” says Astrid Braun. “That diversity, inclusion, and equality will no longer be goals that need to be explained—but rather a way of life at every level.”
Nicole König sees the university’s diversity as a great strength: “If we can complement one another, learn from one another, and treat one another with respect—then together we will shape a future in which diversity is not the exception, but the rule.”
Numerous measures and initiatives are already sending a clear message of inclusion, visibility, and respect:
- Third gender optionandgender-neutral languagein job applications and during college
- Gender-neutral restroomson the FERNFH campus in Wiener Neustadt
- Member of queer@hochschulen—the Austria-wide diversity network for universities
- Anonymous Reporting Boxfor Discrimination and Complaints
- Equalityis firmly enshrined inFERNFH’s bylaws and mission statement
- Guidelines for Diversity-Sensitive Teaching—Supporting Inclusive Teaching Practices
Want to get involved or learn more? The GG&D Committee looks forward to hearing your ideas—you can find all the information here: Equality, Gender & Diversity – FERNFH
