In Memory of 2025/26 Fulbright ETA Alexander Patrick Stanger

The German-American Fulbright Commission mourns the loss of ETA Alexander Patrick Stanger, who passed away last week following a tragic accident in the mountains.

Alexander Patrick Stanger was a double major in German and Film at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, and graduated in June 2025. During studies at Lawrence University, Alexander was named to the Dean's List three years in a row — a testament to dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm for academic life and the university community.

A study abroad experience in Berlin in 2023 left a lasting impression, and Berlin quickly became a place of belonging and connection. Returning to Germany through long-term cultural exchange offered an opportunity to contribute teaching experience in the classroom while sharing a passion for film. Following a teaching practicum at the Appleton Bilingual School and work as a camp counselor at a German immersion camp, Alexander developed a growing interest in a career in education. As a finalist of the Fulbright ETA program, Alexander came to Germany to support language education at Gymnasium Eppendorf in Hamburg. Experience teaching students across a wide range of levels quickly made Alexander a valued and cherished member of the school community.

Alexander was a curious and creative person with a love for travel, film, and animation. A special gift for building community and a genuine joy in meeting new people left a lasting impression on everyone encountered along the way. Creating welcoming and safe spaces in which everybody could feel accepted and valued was deeply important to Alexander. Alex’s respect, openness, and empathy enabled meaningful connections with others to form naturally and fostered deep bonds within the surrounding community.

Alexander was held in the highest regard by friends and by the school community in Hamburg. The loss will be deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing Alexander.