Shaping the Future: Winter Graduation 2025 Highlights and Achievements
Gisma University of Applied Sciences proudly celebrated the graduation of more than 300 outstanding students in a memorable 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, resilience, and academic achievement.
The celebration began with a warm welcome from our Master of Ceremonies, Professor Dr. Peter Konhäusner, setting the tone for an afternoon of pride and reflection. Graduates entered to enthusiastic applause, followed by our esteemed faculty, who have served as mentors, role models, and supporters throughout their journeys. A special tribute was made to the families and friends, both present and virtually attending, acknowledging their unwavering support along the way.
Inspiring messages were shared by Gisma’s leadership. Chairman Professor Dr. Maurits Van Rooijen reflected thoughtfully on the graduates’ journey, while President Professor Dr. Ramon O’Callaghan encouraged students to embrace resilience, purpose, and global opportunities. A highlight of the ceremony was the keynote speech by Professor Dr. Soumitra Dutta, distinguished scholar from the Portulans Institute, Washington DC, and former Dean of Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, INSEAD France, and Cornell University. Dr. Dutta, founding author of the Network Readiness Index and the Global Innovation Index, shared insights on leadership, innovation, and navigating a rapidly evolving world, leaving a lasting impression on the graduates.
Academic excellence was celebrated with pride. Valedictorian speeches highlighted remarkable achievements and personal stories of perseverance, ambition, and impact. The Best Thesis Prize recognised innovative, relevant, and interdisciplinary research, reflecting Gisma’s commitment to academic rigor and societal contribution.
Graduates were individually called to receive their certificates, then posing for a photo to remember this once in a lifetime moment. The applause was resounding, celebrating each student’s hard-earned success, including those attending virtually.
Following the ceremony, graduates and their families joined together for a joyful after-party. The celebration featured dancing, shared meals, and moments of laughter and reflection, providing a perfect opportunity to reflect on achievements, make memories, and celebrate the journey that led to this milestone.
Congratulations to the Class of Winter 2025! May your journey ahead be filled with purpose, courage, and the power to create lasting impact in the world.