Dinner at KIT 2026

Once again, the Dîner au KIT on July 17, 2026, was all about connection, exchange, and appreciation. Employees, students, and alumni of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) were invited. On this occasion, we at KIT GIVING were pleased to welcome representatives from foundations closely associated with KIT—people who support and accompany KIT in a variety of ways. 

The day’s program began with a joint meeting of the board of trustees and the honorary assembly of the KIT Foundation’s donors. Following this, the board members were cordially invited to a joint visit to the KIT Institute of Sports and Sports Science (IfSS). Institute Director Prof. Dr. Alexander Woll and his team welcomed the participants and provided fascinating insights into the institute’s current research projects and scientific activities.

Special attention was given to the latest funded project in the Division of Mathematics and motor skills. Project leader Dr. Claudia Niessner, junior research group leader and academic advisor at the IfSS, presented the project, which focuses on sports for children and adolescents as well as AI-based motor skills diagnostics. The project will be generously funded over the next three years by the Gips-Schüle Foundation in cooperation with the KIT Foundation and makes an important contribution to bridging the gaps between sports science, education, and artificial intelligence.

Another highlight awaited the guests at the Laboratory for Movement, Fitness, and Health Research. Participants had the opportunity to explore state-of-the-art research infrastructure and try out various measurement and testing procedures for themselves. In the process, they were able to put their own fitness to the test and experience research firsthand.

The day culminated successfully at 6:00 p.m. with the Dîner au KIT. This event format, established during KIT’s anniversary year, was held for the second time. Originally planned as a festive evening under the open sky on KIT’s Campus South, the event had to be moved indoors at the last minute due to the weather. The tables hosted by the KIT Foundation, along with those of the Executive Board, were set up in the foyer of the Mathematics Building.

Here, in a cozy atmosphere, everyone dined together, shared anecdotes, laughed, and reflected on the past year. This brought to a close a varied day full of conversation, inspiration, and new connections—one that will remain a fond memory for the participants for a long time to come.

The KIT GIVING team would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all participants and is already looking forward to the next gathering!