I think my two favourite days of the MBA program are the first and last – there’s just so much emotion and positive energy floating around that it’s impossible not to be caught up in it.
Last night the MBAs and their families gathered with IMD Faculty and staff at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne for the beginning of the official graduation celebrations. Set in an atmosphere of triumph and of people overcoming the odds at Olympic Games around the world, we were entertained by members of the class as they told stories and shared memories, videos and photos.
Today though, was the culmination of all of this year’s achievements, the graduation. The traditional procession of MBAs into the auditorium lead by Faculty in their gowns; the speeches of inspiration, future promises and advice; the shared jokes; the farewells – but not goodbyes. And of course, the distribution of the diplomas, the moment when each one of our 90 participants become one of our graduates and alumni.
Amongst the audience we also welcomed back alumni from different years, some of whom had come to cheer on their own family members who have followed in their earlier footsteps.
The Guest Speaker, Mr Skou, Chief Executive Officer of A.P. Møller-Mærsk, was also one of our alumni, having graduated from the IMD MBA in 1997. He focused on the importance of purpose and hard work and the need for great leaders in business who can make the world a better place.
Congratulations to all of our graduates – it’s been a privilege for us to work with you. Enjoy the rest of your journey and be sure to stay in touch!
Suzy
2017 GRADUATION PROGRAM
Welcome by Professor Ralf Boscheck, Dean of the IMD MBA Program
Address by Søren Skou, Chief Executive Officer of A.P. Møller-Mærsk, Graduation Guest Speaker
Distribution of Degrees
Announcement of Awards
Address by Professor Jean-François Manzoni, President of IMD
Address by Zehra Ali & Daniel Kearney, IMD MBA 2017 Graduates on behalf of the Graduating Class
Concluding Remarks by Professor Ralf Boscheck, Dean of the IMD MBA Program
Followed by Cocktail reception & class picture
