In Memoriam of Prof. Dr. Ursula Schumm-Garling
The Department of Business and Economics mourns the death of Prof. em. Dr. Ursula Schumm-Garling, who passed away on April 20, 2021 at the age of 83.
Prof. Ursula Schumm-Garling was Professor of Sociology at the Department of Business and Economics (at that time the Department of Business and Social Studies) from 1974 until her retirement in 2003. She also headed the Social Research Center Dortmund as managing director from 1981 to 1984.
In her research and teaching, she focused on topics related to the world of work, especially how changes affect employees, women's employment, and the interplay of economic and social factors. Precarious working and living conditions were an important focus of her work. The connection between theory and practice has always played an important role in her teaching. Cooperation seminars, excursions and company visits as well as the promotion of dialogue between students and business representatives were a natural part of her teaching activities. She always promoted young researchers and supervised many doctoral students.
After her retirement, she continued to be strongly engaged socially and politically.
The faculty will honor her memory. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to her family.