IUM HOSTS ITS 37TH GRADUATION CEREMONY
On November 23rd, IUM hosted its 37th Graduation Ceremony in the elegant Salle des Princes at the Grimaldi Forum. Family and friends came in large numbers to congratulate their graduates.
Dressed in the usual black caps and gowns, these three hundred twenty-six graduating students from fifty-seven countries climbed on stage to collect this symbolic piece of paper—the happy epilogue of several years of study and the long-awaited debut on the job market.
Friendship and Diversity Shine at Graduation Ceremony
Embracing Friendship
These young individuals formed bonds throughout their academic journey that transcended cultural and social barriers. IUM blossomed with friendships forged in classrooms, nourished by student associations, and solidified through late-night study sessions. These connections provided support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, making the challenges of academic life more bearable and the triumphs even sweeter.
This opportunity to fulfill our dreams was not a solo venture. We’ve learned the value of collaboration and the power of a community that dreams and works together. We leave here with not only knowledge but friends that we now call family.
Leia Schwartz
MSc in Sports Business Management student
Even though the road to an MBA is filled with challenges, the people walking that road with you make it worthwhile.
Kwame AMFO- AKHONNOR
MBA student
Celebrating Diversity
Diversity wasn’t just a word thrown around in speeches but a tangible reality woven into the very fabric of the graduating class. From different ethnicities, backgrounds, and life experiences, each individual brought unique perspectives and talents to the table. This vibrant mosaic enriched the learning environment, fostering understanding, respect, and inclusivity.
We had the privilege of studying in an environment that uniquely blends business acumen with cultural diversity…
The uniqueness that each student has brought must be qualified as more than “added value”; it is our legacy.
Claire Leroy
Bachelor student
Keynote Speech
This year, the ceremony started with a powerful speech by Mr. Filippo GHIRELLI, whom IUM invited as the keynote speaker.
Read to Create Your Impact!
“Is the world truly polarized? Polarization arises from one-dimensional thinking. One-dimensional thinking stems from a lack of words. A lack of words leads to a lack of thought, and a lack of thought results in an absence of critical engagement with the world around us.
You have the power to choose who you want to be—and, more importantly, who you don’t want to be. This can only be achieved through a critical analysis of your surroundings. Your environment shapes your identity, and you are at the best moment in your life to make this choice: the choice of your environment and how you will impact the world. Because impact creates value—but for your impact to matter, it must be intelligible.
This is why you must read. Reading fosters generative imagination. It expands your creativity and equips you with the vocabulary to express yourself clearly and effectively.
With these tools, you can write your story—a story that has the potential to leave a lasting impact on others.”
Filippo Ghirelli is an Italian entrepreneur and founder of one of the largest groups in Europe operating in the sustainability sector, with investments exceeding 3 billion euros and a presence in 9 countries. Genera Group, founded in 2009, has specialized as an investment boutique focused on energy and process efficiency. It is currently the market leader in Italy and one of the top three in Europe. In addition, Filippo is Chairman of the Board of YPO for Monaco and the South of France, the largest international organization for entrepreneurs and executives under 45, with approximately 200 members in the Monaco chapter. Lastly, he is the Co-President of the Monaco Ambassador’s Club. Please give him a warm round of applause.
Awards
Valedictorian Awards sponsored by the Conseil National
For each degree program, the class Valedictorian is the student who has obtained the highest grade average at graduation.
The Latin motto inscribed in the seal of IUM is “Semper ad altum,” which means striving for excellence. We wish to praise these students, particularly for their sustained efforts and excellent academic results.
For the class of 2024, the valedictorian prizes have been awarded to Sarah SEGGIARO, Bachelor program; Ludovico FRIGO, MSc in Finance; Lareen ALKHATIB, MSc in International Management; Leia SCHWARTZ, MSc in Sports Business Management; Joke DECOO, MSc in Luxury Management; and David PFEIL, MBA program.
We didn’t just study our program, we breathed it, we lived it.
Claire Leroy
Bachelor student
Entrepreneurship Award sponsored by the Teofilo Intato Institute
IUM fosters and encourages an entrepreneurial spirit and initiatives across all its programs through various activities. We created this award to recognize students who have successfully developed a business idea and actively contribute to impactful innovation.
Charles MBANDJI, an MBA graduate, received this prize for his entrepreneurial initiative to reduce carbon emissions and the environmental impact of the oil refining process.
Monaco CSR Impact Award sponsored by Michael Bouchard, MBA Alumnus
The CSR Impact Award is given to students who have contributed actively to making a positive impact inside and outside IUM. It was created 13 years ago and sponsored by IUM alumnus Michael Bouchard, MBA Class of 2007.
Annaëlle Raoux, a Bachelor’s graduate, initiated the IUM Buddy program to facilitate the integration of new students to adjust to the environment and have a support system, particularly for international students who are far from their homes.
Faculty Teaching and Research Awards
The Researcher of the Year Award goes to Prof. Gadzinski for his impactful research and exceptional mentorship of junior colleagues, significantly advancing IUM’s academic mission.
The Professor of the Year Award goes to Prof. Castello for his engagement with students and his role as a mentor. He significantly contributed to the pedagogical development of both students and junior colleagues.
Tassle Ritual
The Tassle Ritual is probably the most solemn and emotional moment of the graduation ceremony since it ends a chapter and opens a new one; it signifies their entry into the IUM community of graduates!
The ceremony ended with the traditional “hats in the air” picture, and in small, impromptu gatherings and heartfelt farewells, the depth of their connections resonated.
Let’s celebrate!
But the true celebration occurred after the ceremony with a glass of champagne with families and friends!
Tears of joy and sadness mingled as they acknowledged the bittersweet nature of this momentous occasion. They were leaving behind a cherished chapter of their lives but taking with them the invaluable lessons learned and the unwavering support of their friends.
As the graduates embark on their journeys, they carry the indelible mark of their shared experience. The memory of their friendships forged and the lessons learned from their diverse community will continue to guide them, reminding them that true success lies not only in individual achievement but also in the strength and beauty of our collective tapestry.
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Updated 3 December 2024