The ‘Encounter Table’ is an initiative launched by the InnoPROF team and is aimed at colleagues from the academic staff, research staff and the administration. The aim is to highlight different perspectives and encourage spontaneous conversations in the day-to-day life of the university – particularly between staff members who have little opportunity to interact with one another in their daily work.
A place that brings people together
Right from the opening, it was clear just how accessible the new meeting place is: within minutes, small groups had formed to discuss projects, areas of work and personal experiences. The launch was supported by icebreaker cards, which asked questions such as “What don’t others know about your work yet?” or “What are some of your best experiences at HNU?”, offering a light-hearted way to gain new insights. Interested students, some of them international, also spontaneously joined the discussion table.
In her brief speech, President Prof. Dr Julia Kormann emphasised the importance of such initiatives for a modern university: “Interaction fosters understanding – and understanding leads to better collaboration. The ‘encounter table’ is a small piece of furniture with a big impact.”
Available at any time – not just during your lunch break
The table is permanently situated in the canteen and is available for use all day long. Although it is particularly inviting at lunchtime, it is also intended to provide a space for brief conversations, networking or informal chats throughout the day. Thanks to its compact design, the canteen remains spacious and accessible, without students or staff having to go without a seat.
A boost for a vibrant campus community
With the ‘Encounter Table’, HNU is sending a clear signal of openness, dialogue and a culture of mutual respect within the university. Initial feedback from participants clearly demonstrated just how great the need is for informal get-togethers in everyday working life.
In future, the table is intended to regularly provide opportunities for new conversations – and thus become an integral part of a vibrant campus community.
