Month: April 2026

Many of you aren’t even aware that FAU has a central point of contact for issues related to discrimination, abuse of power, and sexual harassment—and that the barrier to reaching out is much lower than you might think. We sat down with Harriet Ziegler and asked her what exactly she does, when you can contact her, and why you shouldn’t wait until a situation has escalated.
Stuve: What do you do at FAU, and how would you describe it in two sentences?
Harriet Ziegler: My goal is to promote equal opportunity at FAU and ensure that all members of the university can conduct research and study free from discrimination. To that end, I am available as a point of contact, offering advice and support to those affected—no matter how big or small the issue may be.
What kinds of issues can students come to you about?
Whenever they feel they have been discriminated against or sexually harassed, but also in cases of bullying or abuse of power, whether by students, faculty, or staff. A situation doesn’t even have to have escalated yet: it’s better to come forward sooner rather than later.
Is there such a thing as a typical workday for you?
Not really—every day brings new challenges. Sometimes it’s about drafting guidelines; other times, counseling sessions on discrimination or abuse of power take center stage, which I clearly prioritize. On top of that, there are meetings with the Dean of Studies, the Executive Board, and other departments to find solutions together. It’s really very varied.
What kinds of issues end up on your desk that most people probably wouldn’t expect?
I actually deal with all sorts of topics that, in the broadest sense, have to do with people. A recent example is the psychological strain the war in Iran is causing among students. Mental health is becoming an increasingly important issue overall—I work at the intersection of campus communities, pastoral care, and psychological counseling.
What is the biggest misconception about diversity work that annoys you the most?
The idea that this work is simply unnecessary, based on the notion that “we don’t have any problems.” This lack of awareness sometimes manifests itself in unfriendly reactions to existing programs, and that is exactly what really bothers me.
If something happens to me at FAU—what should I do?
You can contact me by email at any time, and I’ll do my best to offer you an appointment within the same week. As a general rule: Reach out to someone you trust—that could be me, but it could also be a professor or the student council. Students in particular can contact my student representative, Janet Fuchidzhieva. You don’t need to have experienced anything specific to come see me. All conversations are completely confidential, and no action will be taken without your consent. Since I am not bound by any specific directives, I can provide advice independently of university structures.
What tools do you have at your disposal for your work?
My main tool is counseling: I show those affected possible paths forward, conduct background discussions when necessary, and, if requested, also explain external options for action.
Favorite office drink—and what does that say about you?
Tea—calming and soothing. And I also enjoy making a cup for everyone who comes to see me!
How do you stay positive in this line of work?
I have a lot of creative freedom, and that helps a lot. Plus, I see time and again that people leave our conversations feeling more positive than when they came in—even if the system isn’t perfect, it makes a difference to be able to help real people. You’ve been at FAU for over ten years.
What do you like most about it here?
The diversity! I studied theater and media studies as well as German language and literature—so it’s been very varied right from the start. What I especially appreciate about FAU is that, with so many different people and disciplines working together, something new is constantly emerging.
Last question, and a very important one: Team Desk Chaos or Team Meticulously Organized?
Definitely Team Chaos—my email inbox, by the way, too!