Marion Ackermann Takes the Helm of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation

Marion Ackermann has officially assumed the role of president of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation (Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz), one of Germany's largest cultural institutions. Her inauguration was marked by a ceremonial event held in Berlin, where she outlined her vision for the future of the foundation while acknowledging the contributions of her predecessor, Hermann Parzinger.

The event took place at the New Museum on Berlin's Museum Island, with notable attendees including the Federal Government's Cultural State Minister, Wolfram Weimer, Saxony's Prime Minister, Michael Kretschmer, and Berlin's newly appointed Culture Senator, Sarah Wedl-Wilson. Ackermann, who will officially begin her duties on June 1, succeeds Parzinger after his 17-year tenure, during which he oversaw significant advancements in the organization.

In her speech, the art historian emphasized the importance of expanding the foundation's outreach and enhancing its international collaborations. She aims to modernize the foundation's narrative and ensure it remains relevant in contemporary culture. Ackermann expressed a desire to connect more people through the foundation's activities, underscoring its commitment to being a 'learning institution.'

During his farewell address, Parzinger issued a poignant reminder about the ongoing challenges to artistic and cultural freedom globally, highlighting concerns regarding political figures who threaten these values. He urged cultural advocates to unite in defense of the freedoms that underpin the arts.

Parzinger's leadership has been marked by the completion of 14 major construction projects, including the development of the Humboldt Forum and renovations to the Pergamon Museum. As Ackermann steps into her new role, she will inherit a foundation poised for reform, aimed at enhancing its autonomy and competitiveness on the global stage.

Cultural State Minister Weimer praised Parzinger's contributions as a consistent force and innovator within the foundation, characterizing Ackermann as a knowledgeable strategist capable of steering the institution towards a brighter future. The event attracted various guests from the cultural and political realms, including former cultural state ministers Monika Grütters, Claudia Roth, and Bernd Neumann.