Sometimes it is small observations that reveal where a society stands: a conversation in a palliative care ward, a glimpse into a poor neighbourhood in Regensburg, an encounter with people on the autism spectrum, or the shock of a cancer diagnosis. The five theses that were awarded the Barmherzige Brüder Bayern KdöR sponsorship prize this year pick up on precisely such snapshots – and reveal what is otherwise easily overlooked: the vulnerability, diversity and strength of our community.
For this outstanding achievement, the graduates of the Faculty of Social and Health Sciences at OTH Regensburg were awarded the Barmherzige Brüder sponsorship award on Thursday, 13 November 2025. The prizes, worth a total of 6,000 euros, recognise scientific work that precisely analyses key social challenges and provides impetus for a future based on solidarity and human values.
Dean of Studies Prof. Dr. Manuela Brandstetter welcomed around 100 guests to Lecture Hall D 001, including representatives of the Barmherzige Brüder, university staff, students, and friends and families of the award-winning graduates.
Commitment that inspires hope
In his welcoming address, Prior Frater Thomas Väth, Prior of the Convent of the Merciful Brothers in Regensburg, emphasised how important social commitment is, especially in difficult times. He spoke openly about challenges in social work, from increasing pressures in palliative care to the lack of affordable housing in Regensburg.
‘It is crucial that we have people who are committed to the broad field of social work,’ said Frater Thomas Väth. He continued: "Especially in times when so much is in disarray, we need those who take a close look and take responsibility. The award-winning work impressively shows where change is possible – where people put their hearts and minds into helping others. I hope that this award will give the winners the strength and motivation to move our society in a positive direction."
Shaping the future of social and health professions
Prof. Dr. Nicolas Schöpf, Dean of the Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, praised the academic quality of the submitted papers and highlighted the dynamic development of health science courses at OTH Regensburg.
"The award stands for commitment, creativity and a willingness to think outside the box. The award-winning papers show how diverse and relevant the topics of our graduates are – and how much they are helping to shape the future of social and health professions. Stay curious, critical and keep your focus on people – because in the end, it's not the footnotes that change the world, but your attitude," said Dean Schöpf.
The 2025 award winners:
3rd prize: Patricia Sonnleitner (Music and Movement-Oriented Social Work, B.A.)
Topic: Internal and external perspectives on the autism spectrum – On the necessity of rapprochement
Sonnleitner combines scientific perspectives with social demands. She shows how strongly experiences of discrimination shape the reality of life and advocates for an understanding of the autism spectrum as part of human diversity.
3rd prize: Daniel Demleitner (Care Management, B.Sc./B.A.)
Topic: Psychological stress in palliative care in the region – A systematic investigation
Demleitner examines stress factors and resources of inpatient and outpatient palliative care teams – from autonomy and team culture to structural bottlenecks. His work provides concrete pointers for employers on how to alleviate stress.
2nd prize: Linda Weber (Social Work, B.A.)
Topic: Influence of conditions in emergency shelters on mental health
Weber was unable to present her work due to illness. However, her sensitively conducted interviews impressively show how social work support accompanies and strengthens people in stressful life situations.
1st prize: Clara Kappelmeyer (Social Work, B.A.)
Topic: Women's experiences when receiving a breast cancer diagnosis
Kappelmeyer interviewed six women affected by breast cancer about their experiences during the diagnosis stage. Her analysis shows how strongly conversation settings, relatives and life situations influence the entire disease process and how important individually tailored support is.
Master's Prize: Tobias Kraus (Master's in Inclusion and Exclusion, M.A.)
Topic: Poverty policy in Regensburg – social space analysis and recommendations for action
Kraus analysed poverty structures in the urban area and developed concrete recommendations for the decentralisation of social services. His work illustrates that social segregation often arises at the micro level and that geographical proximity is a key factor for participation.
Words of appreciation from the award winners
In their joint acceptance speech, Patricia Sonnleitner and Daniel Demleitner emphasised the significance of the award: Sonnleitner highlighted how valuable it is for students to be given a public platform for their topics. Demleitner described how much the part-time degree programme had shaped him both professionally and personally: theory and practice must work together to develop social relevance.
The musical accompaniment for the ceremony was provided by a student band from the Bachelor's programme in Music and Movement-Oriented Social Work, featuring Nerea Freichel Nieto (vocals, bass), Caroline Davia (vocals, percussion), Hannes Tischer (drums) and Lorenz Breuer (vocals, guitar, saxophone).
