Johannes Haeffner

Prof. Dr. Johannes Haeffner is Professor of Education and Diaconal Studies at the Evangelical University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg (EVHN), where he serves as Head of Diaconal Studies. His professional appointments include significant leadership roles such as Member of the Board of Directors of the v. Bodelschwingh Foundations Bethel (since 2017) and former Training Director of the Rummelsberg Deacons and Deaconesses (2014-2023).

His academic background includes:

• PhD from Otto-Friedrich University of Bamberg (2012)
• Studies in Pedagogy and Psychology at Otto-Friedrich University of Bamberg (1997-2001)
• Social Pedagogy degree from Protestant University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg (1995-1999)
• Diaconal training at Diakonenschule/Fachakademie für Sozialpädagogik (1990-1995)

Professor Haeffner's research spans Diaconal Studies, Social Pedagogy, and Religious Education, with particular emphasis on professional development in religious-social contexts, empirical analysis of educational systems, and interdisciplinary approaches to theology and social work. His work frequently examines the intersection of faith-based practices with contemporary social challenges.

His publications from 2009-2024 demonstrate consistent focus on educational development, diaconal professionalism, and religious pedagogy. Recent works show increasing emphasis on transdisciplinary methodologies and future-oriented analyses of church institutions, maintaining strong connections between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in social and religious education.

Professor Haeffner actively contributes to academic networks including the German Society for Educational Science (DGfE), Scientific Advisory Board for Diaconal Learning, and Systemic Society, reinforcing his commitment to advancing diaconal and educational research.