A creative powerhouse, notable mentor, and successful entrepreneur, Jörg Pierach has devoted his time and considerable talents to the University and its students for years. Graduating with a BA in Journalism from the College of Liberal Arts in 1989, Pierach went on to found prominent integrated creative agency, Fast Horse, whose work has earned a wide variety of national and international awards and accolades. Also co-owner of acclaimed local eatery, Tilia, Pierach’s skill set covers broad territory, which extends to his dynamic contributions in service to the U of M.
Recently bestowed the prestigious 2019 Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication Award for Excellence, Pierach is known as a champion when it comes to elevating students and alumni. In addition to providing paid summer internships to CLA students and employing dozens of graduates, he’s lent his expertise as chair of the Board of Advocates for CLAgency, a student-run marketing firm that creates content and design for all 31 CLA departments and units as well as outside clients. Also a leader in workforce diversification, Pierach founded “The Battle” -- a scholarship fundraising event which, in its first year, generated over 25k in corporate sponsorships for a new endowment aimed to support diverse students following a creative career path. He also helped establish the Dr. Claus A. Pierach Scholarship and Lecture, honoring his father, who was affiliated with the U of M Medical School for over 40 years.
From being a three-term member of the University’s Board of Trustees and its Marketing and Communications Committee to personally mentoring dozens of students to volunteering and speaking at a variety of U of M events and conferences, Jörg Pierach defines excellence in service.