Gisma celebrates achievement, inspiration and new beginnings at 2025 Graduation Ceremony
Gisma University of Applied Sciences proudly celebrated the graduation of over 250 students last week in a heartwarming ceremony held at the Potsdam campus. The atrium was filled with excitement as graduates, faculty, families, and friends came together both in person and online to honour years of dedication, growth, and academic achievement.
The celebration began with a warm welcome from our Masters of Ceremonies, Professor Dr Peter Konhäusner, who set the tone for an afternoon of pride and reflection. Graduates entered to loud applause, followed by our esteemed faculty, who have served as mentors, role models, and supporters throughout the students’ journeys. A special moment was dedicated to the families and friends in attendance, both physically and virtually. Graduates were asked to stand and turn to applaud their loved ones, in a moving tribute to those who stood by them every step of the way.
Powerful and inspiring messages followed from Gisma’s leadership. Chairman Professor Dr Maurits Van Rooijen opened with thoughtful reflections, and newly appointed President, Professor Dr Ramon O’Callaghan, shared an encouraging message focused on resilience, purpose, and global opportunity. Adding to the occasion was a keynote speech by Mr Ulrich Niemann, a respected economist and senior official at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. As the head of the ‘Partnering in Business with Germany’ initiative, Mr Niemann shared his experience in international economic policy and left the audience with meaningful insights for the future.
Academic excellence was celebrated throughout the ceremony. Two outstanding students were named valedictorians: Sepideh Khalafi and Diego Portilla Amarillas. Sepideh, who pursued a Master’s in Data Science, AI & Digital Business in her 30s, demonstrated that it’s never too late to follow your passion. Diego, from Monterrey, Mexico, impressed with his commitment to using technology for social reintegration and impact in the German job market. Their speeches were inspiring, heartfelt, and a testament to Gisma’s diverse and dynamic student community.
This year’s Best Thesis Prize recognised student research that stood out for its innovation, relevance, and interdisciplinary value. The award was presented by Professor Dr Fotis Papageorgiou, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Professor Dr Ahmad Abu-Alkheil, Chair of the Examination Board. It marked a proud moment for Gisma’s commitment to academic rigour and societal impact.
The most anticipated part of the afternoon the awarding of certificates followed soon after. Graduates were individually called to receive their degrees, with Dr Dariya Afanasyeva, Head of Registry, coordinating the process alongside the academic team. The applause was resounding, and even those attending virtually were honoured by name and recognised for their achievements.
To close the ceremony, the student services and registry teams were invited on stage and received a well-earned round of applause for their vital role in making the event a success. The celebration culminated in the iconic tossing of caps, witnessed by all in the lounge area symbolic and joyful finale to an incredible day.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! May your path ahead be filled with purpose, courage, and the power to create lasting impact wherever you go.