Celebrating Excellence, Diversity, and Future Leaders
On 6 December 2025, the International University of Monaco (IUM) proudly celebrated its Graduation Ceremony 2025 at the prestigious Salle des Princes, Grimaldi Forum. The event marked an important milestone for the IUM community, honoring the achievements of students from Bachelor, MSc, MBA, and DBA programs.
Surrounded by family members, friends, faculty, and staff, graduates officially concluded an intense and transformative academic journey, ready to take the next step in their professional lives.
A Celebration of Academic Excellence
The ceremony highlighted not only academic success but also the values that define IUM: excellence, international diversity, innovation, and strong industry connections. Several students were recognized for outstanding academic performance through Valedictorian Awards, reflecting their commitment, discipline, and leadership throughout their studies.
With over 430 graduates representing 74 nationalities, the Graduation Ceremony perfectly illustrated the truly international and multicultural spirit of IUM.
Preparing Future Global Leaders
Throughout their time at IUM, graduates have benefited from a practice-oriented education, close interaction with faculty, and exposure to real-world business challenges. Thanks to strong industry partnerships, international programs, and personalized mentoring, IUM prepares students to thrive in competitive global environments.
As they join the IUM Alumni Network, graduates remain connected to an international community of professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders across industries.
Looking Ahead
The Graduation Ceremony 2025 was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a moment to look toward the future. IUM graduates now embark on new professional and academic paths, equipped with the skills, mindset, and international perspective needed to shape tomorrow’s business world.
Awards Ceremony – Distinguished Speakers
The 2025 ceremony will feature meaningful speeches from student representatives and distinguished guests who reflect the spirit, determination, and values of IUM.
Alumna Keynote Speaker: Joan Mill
Joan Mill, an IUM alumna, was invited as Alumna Keynote Speaker to share her professional journey and real-world insights with the graduating class. Her speech offered valuable perspectives on international careers, personal growth, and the impact of an IUM education beyond the classroom.
Valedictorian Awards
Sponsored by the Conseil National
For each degree program, the Valedictorian is the student who achieved the highest academic average at graduation. The Latin motto inscribed on the IUM seal, “Semper ad altum”—meaning “Always striving higher”—perfectly reflects the dedication and excellence demonstrated by these outstanding students.
During the ceremony, the Valedictorians of the Class of 2025 were honored as the top-performing graduates across IUM programs:
- Giulia Garello – Bachelor Program
- Chiara Verbücheln – MSc in Finance
- Charlotte Hoyos – MSc in International Management
- Charlotte Bontemps – MSc in Luxury Management
- Maryam Guzman – MSc in Sports Business Management
- Magnus Frohmann – MSc in Sustainability & Innovation Management
- Dorina Timea Ivanic – MBA Program
These graduates exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and commitment within their respective programs.
Monaco CSR Impact Award
Sponsored by Michael Bouchard, MBA Alumnus (Class of 2007)
The Monaco CSR Impact Award is presented to students who have made a meaningful positive impact both within and beyond the IUM community. Created 13 years ago, the award is sponsored by IUM alumnus Michael Bouchard.
For the Class of 2025, the award was presented to Renée Schmid, a Bachelor’s graduate, who initiated the IUM Buddy Program. This initiative supports the integration of new students—particularly international students—by helping them adapt to their new environment and build a strong support network.
Faculty Teaching and Research Awards
Researcher of the Year Award
Awarded to Dr. Domenico Campa in recognition of his impactful research and outstanding mentorship of junior colleagues, significantly contributing to the advancement of IUM’s academic mission.
Professor of the Year Award
Awarded to Dr. Marika Taishoff for his exceptional engagement with students and his strong role as a mentor. His contribution has been instrumental in the pedagogical development of both students and junior faculty members.
The IUM Spirit: More Than a Degree
The Class of 2025 embodies the core values that define the International University of Monaco: academic rigor, a global mindset, innovation, responsibility, and cultural diversity. As these graduates join the global IUM alumni network—spanning more than 100 countries—they step into the professional world equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and perspective needed to make a meaningful impact.
Iconic Graduation Moments
The Tassel Ritual
In a powerful moment of shared emotion, hundreds of graduates simultaneously moved their tassels, symbolizing their official transition from students to graduates. This collective gesture captured years of hard work, resilience, and ambition.
The Grand Class Photo
Immediately following the ceremony, the Class of 2025 gathered on stage for a monumental group photo. Surrounded by applause, lights, and the proud gaze of family members and faculty, the image became a lasting symbol of unity, diversity, and global aspiration.
The Iconic “Hats in the Air” Moment
The ceremony culminated in the iconic “Hats in the Air” celebration. Graduation caps flew high, cheers filled the room, and the atmosphere reflected a powerful sense of pride, freedom, and collective achievement.
A Grand Finale – And the Celebration Goes On
The formal ceremony concludes, but the spirit of the moment lingers. Laughter, photos, and heartfelt embraces fill the room as the celebration seamlessly transitions into the evening’s reception. This is more than a ceremony, it’s a memory the Class of 2025 will carry for the rest of their lives.