Great recognition for practising responsibility and sustainable management
Admont Abbey was awarded the „Graz-Seckau Diocese Award for Exemplary Financial Management“ during a formal ceremony. The award recognised the Abbey’s ongoing commitment to value-based, responsible and forward-looking financial management.
There was great joy throughout the abbey. This recognition is both a special tribute to the work carried out and an incentive to continue steadfastly along the path we have chosen.
Photo (c) Gerd Neuhold Sonntagsblatt
Ceremony at Seggau Castle
The ceremony took place on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, at 5.00 pm in the impressive setting of Seggau Castle. During the event, Wilhelm Krautwaschl presented the award in person, alongside representatives from politics and the social partners. The evening was also hosted by presenter Oliver Zeisberger.
In total, the diocese recognised eight companies for their exemplary business practices. Admont Abbey was represented at the awards ceremony by Abbot Gerhard Hafner, his fellow monks from the Economic Chapter, the Director of Finance and the abbey’s operations managers.
The Diocese of Graz-Seckau’s Award of Recognition consisted of a certificate from the bishop and a sculpture specially designed by a renowned artist – a visible sign of recognition for responsible stewardship in the interests of the common good.
The ceremony was followed by a convivial get-together with a regional buffet on the terrace of Seggau Castle, which provided an opportunity for people to meet and chat.
Photo (c) Gerd Neuhold Sonntagsblatt
Acknowledgement for the Award of Distinction from the Diocese of Graz-Seckau
Our Most Reverend Abbot Gerhard Hafner OSB emphasised the special significance of the award in a statement and expressed his thanks:
„I would like to thank all the confreres, our economic director Franz Pichler, the managers of the monastery and all the employees. This award is the result of consistent, sustainable and collaborative work across many areas. It shows that our common path of responsibility and future-orientation is recognised and appreciated!“
Also Economic Director Franz Pichler sees the award as confirmation of the path we have taken: „Our employees are the most important factor for the sustainable success of Admont Abbey. Our aim is to create secure and attractive jobs and to maintain them in the long term. We see ourselves as a responsible employer in the region and consciously invest in people, training and development. After all, economic success is created where committed employees have prospects and can shape the future together.“
The Award of Recognition from the Diocese of Graz-Seckau thus demonstrates that Admont Abbey stands not only for economic stability and sustainable practices, but also for a corporate culture based on respect, reliability and long-term development opportunities. These qualities make the Abbey an attractive employer and a strong partner in the region. You can read more about the Abbey’s businesses at the Bursary.
Photo (c) Gerd Neuhold Sonntagsblatt
