Born in 1958. Herne (North Rhine-Westphalia). Degree in agricultural engineering, doctorate in agriculture. Member of academic staff, Bonn University, Faculty of Agriculture. Adviser on agricultural policy, German academy for rural youth (DLA) of the German farmers’ union (DBV) in Bonn. Involvement in local government including district executive of CDU since 1993, Vice-Chairwoman. 1994-1999, Town councillor, Herne. Vice-Chairwoman of CDU Council Group until 1999. 1994, Founder member and then Vice-Chairwoman, Europa-Union Herne; Vice-Chairwoman, Europa-Union North Rhine-Westphalia.Member of the EPP-Bureau. MEP since 1999.