Thank You, Prof. Kothe – and Welcome, Prof. Figge: A New Chapter for the JSMC

On 26^th of March, the JSMC marked an important transition in its leadership. After many years of dedicated commitment as spokesperson, Prof. Erika Kothe stepped down from her duties and handed over the role to Prof. Marc Thilo Figge, who will serve as interim leader until the official elections in July.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Prof. Erika Kothe for her longstanding dedication, thoughtful guidance, and tireless support of the JSMC. Through her leadership, she has helped shape and strengthen the work of the board and has been a highly valued voice for our community. Her commitment, experience, and steady presence have made a lasting impact, and we are deeply thankful for everything she has contributed in this role.

We are very pleased that Prof. Kothe will continue to remain a member of the JSMC board until her retirement next year, and we look forward to benefiting further from her insight and experience during this time.

At the same time, we warmly welcome Prof. Marc Thilo Figge as interim leader. We are grateful that Prof. Figge has taken on this responsibility and we look forward to working together in the months ahead. With the upcoming elections in July, this marks the beginning of a new chapter for the JSMC, and we are confident that the transition will provide continuity as well as fresh momentum for the future.