Lasse Grimmer, EDU '21, has carved a path defined by resilience, intellectual curiosity and an enduring commitment to making a difference. A former student-athlete and international scholar in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at Temple University, Grimmer’s journey showcases how education and athletics can intersect to foster personal growth and global impact. 

Grimmer first picked up rowing in 2010. With hard work and dedication, he quickly excelled as a competitive rower and eventually represented Germany at the Junior World Championships. After high school, he pursued his studies in economics, while training as a national team athlete. Despite his success, he found himself yearning for something more and began exploring opportunities overseas. This led him to transfer internationally, coming to Temple University on a sports scholarship in fall 2019, a decision he describes as “one of the best” of his life.  

At Temple, Grimmer found a supportive community that enabled him to thrive both academically and athletically. He majored in adult and organizational development with a minor in global studies. 

“The U.S. academic system suited me well,” he reflects. “In Germany, grades are often based entirely on one final exam, which can be stressful. In contrast, the U.S. system evaluates students through various assignments, quizzes, tests and participation, which complemented my learning style and allowed me to thrive.”  

At the time, under the guidance of head coach Brian Perkins and assistant coach Fergal Barry of Temple Men’s Crew, Grimmer adapted quickly to the intensity of collegiate rowing in the United States. His background in competitive rowing in Germany instilled discipline, but the demands at Temple elevated his training to new heights.  

“Rowing in Germany focuses on endurance and technique in the winter, shifting to competition prep in the summer, while the U.S. emphasizes year-round high-intensity training,” Grimmer says. “Adapting was tough at first, but balancing both styles improved my performance.” 

A typical day for Grimmer in college began at dawn with rigorous practices on the water, supplemented by strength training and endurance workouts.  

“Rowing is not just a sport—it’s a lifestyle,” he shares. “It teaches you resilience, teamwork and the importance of pushing through challenges, both physically and mentally.”  

In fall 2020, Grimmer was elected as one of the three team captains of Temple Men’s Crew, a role in which he demonstrated exceptional leadership. He co-guided a team of over 60 members through the challenges posed by heightened COVID-19 restrictions, fostering resilience and unity during an unprecedented time. 

Balancing the grueling demands of training with academic responsibilities required meticulous time management and unwavering focus. His efforts paid off as he graduated from Temple magna cum laude.   

“I saw my two years at Temple as a fresh start for my studies,” he reflects. “I made sure to use every bit of time during the day to stay on top of my academics and training.”  

When it comes to academics, a pivotal figure in Grimmer’s experience was professor Armando X. Estrada, whose AOD 2201 Research Methods class left an indelible mark.  

“It was the best class I’ve ever taken,” Grimmer recalls. “It made me curious and excited about research. I later had the chance to work with [Professor Estrada] as a research assistant.”  

His passion for international education grew during this time, especially after discussing the role of education in global democracy.  

“I realized that a career focused on international education would be both fulfilling and exciting,” Grimmer reflects.  

As a research assistant under Estrada, he delved into topics like resilience.  

“My work involved conducting various research activities. I read numerous papers, extracted important information, conducted statistical analysis and provided general support to professor Estrada’s research,” he shares.  

Estrada’s mentorship extended beyond academics, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when Grimmer chose to stay in Philadelphia.  

“He checked in with me regularly, not just on my academic progress but also on my mental well-being,” Grimmer shares.  

Grimmer also extends his gratitude to Temple’s Resnick Academic Support Center, which fosters an environment where student-athletes like himself can excel.  

Following his time at Temple, Grimmer pursued a master’s degree at Cambridge. He earned a master of philosophy in education with a focus on globalization and international development, rowing for Cambridge along the way. 

 "Cambridge was an incredible experience—being surrounded by brilliant minds from around the world was eye-opening," he shares.   

His thesis explored the relationship between education and democracy in sub-Saharan Africa, a region that has captured his academic and personal interest.  

“My passion for this subject was inspired in part by my experiences at Temple, through an undergraduate capstone project exploring education systems in Ghana,” he says.   

Upon completing his degree at Cambridge, Grimmer worked as a teacher in Ghana and Uganda, which further deepened his understanding of the intersection between education and democracy. The experience inspired his goal to contribute to global education reform, emphasizing equity and democratic values.  

“I’ve always been politically aware—my family is very engaged in politics. But working in Ghana and Uganda gave me firsthand insights into how education can impact democracy and political stability,” he explains. “Having the opportunity to live and engage with people in these contexts was incredibly enriching.”  

Today, Grimmer is the coordinator for the UNESCO Chair on Observation and Education of World Heritage and Biosphere Reserve, situated at the Institute of Geography and Geocommunication, a research group for Earth observation at the Heidelberg University of Education in Germany.  

“My role is to coordinate international projects that focus on educational development across the globe,” he shares. “I’m passionate about global education, and I’m fortunate to work on projects that can make a real difference.”  

Grimmer remains committed to inspiring others. In fall 2024, he returned to Temple as a guest speaker for professor Dominique Kliger’s AOD 1001 Practical Application in Adult and Organizational Development class. He views giving back as a vital responsibility.  

“I believe that giving back is one of the best things you can do,” he states, hoping others might be inspired or motivated to do the same.  

Looking ahead, Grimmer aspires to pursue a PhD in international education, continuing to dig deeper into the link between education and democracy.  

“There’s so much more to uncover in this field, and I want to contribute to it,” he shares. His goal is to become a professor—to teach, learn and work with students to explore these issues further.  

“Education is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he emphasizes. “Without democracy or free societies, people are restricted and restrained. It’s crucial to preserve these values.”  

Through his work and aspirations, Grimmer embodies the Temple spirit of grit, determination and global citizenship.   

Reflecting on his experiences and early career, Grimmer says, “I’ve been fortunate to experience so much, and I know not everyone has those opportunities. I want to help change the system, so that more and more people can have access to educational freedom and opportunities in their life.”