The International MBA (IMBA) program at National Chengchi University (NCCU) celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024 in a heartwarming ceremony held on the evening of June 8th at the Sheraton Grand Taipei Hotel. Over 40 students crossed the stage, marking the successful culmination of their two-year journey filled with academic rigor, personal growth, and cross-cultural exchange.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Ms. Rovin Fevrier, Second Secretary of the Embassy of St. Lucia in Taiwan (ROC), and Mrs. Brenda Lewis and Ms. Sajia Lewis, wife and daughter of Mr. Robert Lewis, Ambassador of St. Lucia in Taiwan (ROC). Their attendance highlighted the international reach and recognition of the IMBA program. Faculty members, friends, and families of the graduating class also attended, sharing in the joy and pride of this momentous occasion.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome and introduction by Professor Shari Shang, former Associate Dean of the College of Commerce at NCCU. Professor Shari Shang acknowledged the challenging circumstances under which the students completed their degrees and praised their resilience and adaptability in the face of a rapidly changing world. She expressed pride in their ability to overcome obstacles and achieve their academic goals.
Professor Jason Tsai, Director of the IMBA program, delivered encouraging remarks, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning. He emphasized that graduation is not the end but the beginning of a continuous journey of knowledge acquisition and professional development. Professor Tsai expressed confidence in the graduates' ability to apply their knowledge and skills to navigate future challenges in the ever-evolving business landscape.
The commencement address was delivered by two distinguished alumni from the IMBA program, Richard Huang (Class of 2021) and Florian Vogel (Class of 2019). Richard inspired the graduates to shape their future with resilience and passion, encouraging them to turn their dreams into achievable goals. He emphasized the significance of innovation and adaptability in an ever-changing world.
Florian, who graduated five years ago, shared his personal experience of setting and achieving both professional and personal goals. He emphasized the importance of consistent effort and perseverance, urging the graduates to take small, consistent steps towards their aspirations. He reminded them that life is a marathon, not a sprint, and encouraged them to stay true to their values and strive for excellence.
The graduates also had the opportunity to hear from their peers. Zach Chen and Suren Chultemsuren, co-captains of the 2023/2024 Dragon Boat team, shared their experience of building camaraderie and teamwork through sports, likening it to the collaborative spirit fostered in the IMBA program.
Trisha Lionel, the President of the IMBA Student Council, delivered a heartfelt address highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the international student experience. She thanked family, friends, and professors for their unwavering support and expressed excitement for the endless possibilities that await the graduates.
The ceremony also included the awarding of Certificates of Contribution to the IMBA Student Council and Dragon Boat team, acknowledging their dedication and leadership in enriching the program's extracurricular activities.
Following the conferral of diplomas and the turning of the tassels, the graduates, faculty, and guests enjoyed a delightful buffet dinner. The evening continued with a personality awards ceremony, where students cast their votes to honor the most exceptional members of the graduating class.
Jimmy Yang was crowned "Happy Hour Hero," Nichamon Satitpanaporn won "Wanderlust Traveler," Suren Chultemsuren, Louis Gicquel, and Trisha Lionel were awarded "Most Likely to Work from a Beach," while Trisha Lionel also received the "Most Likely to Change the World" award. Yaninee Likhitworasak was recognized as "PowerPoint Picasso," and Felix Pratama was honored as "Group Project Guru."
A fun-filled trivia session followed, testing the graduates' knowledge from past classes, with prizes awarded to the students with the top three scores, Yaninee Likhitworasak, Felix Pratama and Albert Chen. The evening culminated in the crowning of Carol Vindel Martinez and Suren Chultemsuren as Gala King and Queen, with all winners receiving prizes sponsored by the IMBA Student Council.
The outgoing Student Council President, Trisha Lionel expressed gratitude to the members for their unwavering support and proudly announced Dicky Irawan as the new 2024/2025 Student Council President, symbolizing the continued legacy of student leadership within the IMBA program.
The IMBA program at NCCU is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, focus on cross-cultural understanding, and experiential learning opportunities. The program's commitment to nurturing well-rounded leaders is evident in the accomplishments and aspirations of its graduates.
As the Class of 2024 embarks on their professional journeys, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained from the IMBA program, ready to make their mark in the global business arena.
NCCU IMBA Graduating Class of 2024
Director of the IMBA Program, Professor Jason Tsai, delivers the Opening Remarks to students, invited guests, family, and friends.
The NCCU IMBA Dragon Boat Team proudly received their certificates of participation for their hard work and dedication to the Dragon Boat Team.
IMBA Student Council members proudly displayed their contribution certificates for their dedication to the Student Council for the academic year 2023/2024.
IMBA Students in smiles as they celebrate the culmination of a two-year journey.
Outgoing Students Council Presenting congratulating incoming Students Council President Dicky Irawan.
