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THE EU EXPERIENCE INTERNATIONAL IMPACT ONE UNIVERSITY – ONE NETWORK
EU Barcelona Commencement Ceremony 2011 EU Today TV | Events section www.euruni.tv
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4 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011
EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY EU BUSINESS SCHOOL
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 5 INDEX
www.euruni.edu
Message from the President
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European University Munich, Germany Distinguished Guests Commencement Ceremony Student Speech Special Awards Cocktail Reception
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European University Geneva & Montreux, Switzerland Distinguished Guests Commencement Ceremony Student Speeches Special Awards Cocktail Reception
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European University Barcelona, Spain Distinguished Guests Commencement Ceremony Student Speeches Special Awards Cocktail Reception
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Nichols College, Dudley, MA, USA Dual Degree Graduates
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List of Graduating Students
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6 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 THE RESPONSIBLE LEADER
THE RESPONSIBLE LEADER Leaders must remember that they are the custodians of society’s most powerful institutions. They must therefore hold themselves to a higher standard. Leadership is about change, hope, and the future. Display a commitment to learning and developing yourself. If you aren’t educated, you can’t help the uneducated; if you are sick, you can’t minister to the sick; if you are poor, you can’t help the poor. Develop the ability to put personal performance in perspective. Over a long career, you will experience both success and failure. Humility in success and courage in failure are hallmarks of a good leader. Be ready to invest in developing other people. Be unstinting in helping your colleagues realize their full potential. Realize the importance of loyalty to organization, profession, community, society, and, above all, family. Most of our achievements would be impossible without our families’ support.
Assume responsibility for outcomes as well as for the processes and people you work with. How you achieve results will shape the kind of person you become. Balance achievement with compassion and learning with understanding. Be conscious of the part you play. Be concerned about the problems of the poor and the disabled, accept human weaknesses, laugh at yourself – and avoid the temptation to play God. Leadership is about self-awareness, recognizing your failings, and developing modesty, humility, and humanity. C.K. Prahalad
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 7 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT BODY OF MORE THAN 100 NATIONALITIES SPEAKING MORE THAN 50 LANGUAGES
Message from the President
European University is business diversity in action. Multicultural, multilingual, and multi-campus: EU educates innovative and responsible business leaders. E: Education promotes innovation U: Uniting the classroom to the boardroom
Dear graduating students, parents and friends, distinguished guests, faculty and staff members, First of all: Congratulations to the class of 2011. You made it! Our graduates are from now on our ambassadors. You are part of the European University Alumni Family. Throughout your studies, you depended on us. Now we depend on you to capitalize on the synergy that we have created together. Commencement is a very important day in your lives. It means that through your courage and commitment you have accomplished your goal: to achieve the degree of Bachelor’s or Master’s! Academic year 2010-2011 was a milestone in the European University success story. Highlights from the last 12 months include accreditation awards from IACBE and CEEMAN. Recognition from other educational cooperatives such as EFMD and The Peter Drucker Society reflects our success in higher education global ranking tables, while our acceptance by EABIS and to the UNbacked PRME initiative is a result of our social responsibility policies.
So you, the graduates, will lead the next generation. You are the ‘millennials’. Your parents and I already belong to the past generation. But both generations share common values, such as commitment, belief, passion, success, tact, sincerity, tolerance, patience, transparency and social responsibility remain the same over decades. Thank you for believing in EU and for your confidence, trust and generosity. Thank you for the moments of fun and excellence you have brought us. These are great gifts you have given us. Through your spirit, our faculty and staff will remain always young. I wish you good luck and bon voyage on your exciting new journey and look forward to seeing you on our Alumni Grid webpage www.alumni.euruni.edu. At European University, you are always welcome. Dr. Dirk Craen President European University
8 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 MUNICH
EU MUNICH Commencement Ceremony 11 June 2011
European University’s Munich Commencement Ceremony was held in the magnificent Festsaal of the luxurious Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich. 54 Bachelor’s and Master’s students representing 27 nationalities were proud to graduate from EU and were joined on this special day by over 300 family members and guests.
Dr. Dirk Craen
Dean Sascha Liebhardt
Dr. Erich Lejeune - King Fellow Award
European University was honored to welcome Dr. Dirk Craen, President, European University; Mrs. Innegrit Volkhardt, CEO, Hotel Bayerischer Hof Group; Dr. Erich Lejeune, CEO, Lejeune Academy for Philosophy and Motivation; Dr. Sergey Oganovich Kalendzhyan, Dean, Graduate School of Corporate Management, Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration; Dr. Julius Niedvaras, Director, International Business School, Vilnius University; and esteemed members of the EU Board of Trustees.
Founder of Consumer Electronics AG and inventor of the world’s first virtual stock exchange for microchips, Dr. Erich Lejeune is the motivational speaker, author, media personality and philanthropist who European University had the honor of inviting to deliver the 2011 commencement address in Munich.
Dean Sascha Liebhardt opened the ceremony, welcoming all and congratulating the students on their hard work and dedication leading to this significant occasion.
Communication. Networking. You have to dedicate time to it, but it works. This was the message Dr. Lejeune shared with the graduates in his inspiring speech. Asserting that 80% of communication is emotional, he urged graduates to pay attention to the world around them, listen to people and never stop learning. These skills, he said, inform sound business practices.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 9 MUNICH
EU IS AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS SCHOOL WHERE HUMAN VALUES FLOURISH
Dr. Sergey Kalendzhyan - Doctor Honoris Causa
Dr. Julius Niedvaras - Doctor Honoris Causa
Mrs. Innegrit Volkhardt - King Fellow Award
Insistence and optimism is the key to success he explained: “If you hear no, think about it 4 times, and turn it around to be yes”. An advocate of corporate responsibility, Dr. Erich Lejeune donated hundreds of thousands of Consumer Electronics AG stocks to the city of Munich for state kindergardens and retirement homes. In 2003 he founded Heart for Heart – Foundation for Life, an association dedicated to making heart surgery, its diagnosis and rehabilitation available to patients in need in Germany.
Honorary doctorates were presented to Dr. Sergey Kalendzhyan and Dr. Julius Niedvaras for outstanding contributions to corporate management education.
Another King Fellow Award was presented to Dr. Erich Lejeune for the continuous effort of improving the entrepreneurial thinking of individuals and fostering an atmosphere of creativity and productivity in addition to his relentless effort to help children with his charitable work.
EU President Dr. Dirk Craen took the stage and addressed the graduates, highlighting the importance of one’s dreams and believing in yourself to have a successful future.
The King Fellow Award and the Family Business Award was presented to Innegrit Volkhardt for outstanding entrepreneurial efforts to successfully compete as a family owned hotel group in today’s highly competitive luxury hotel industry. By continuously creating and delivering value to the customer in an unforgettably luxurious manner, Mrs. Volkhardt is ensuring a sustainable family business that offers careers in a truly international environment.
Highlight from Dr. Craen‘s speech “European University’s faculty and staff prepared you to be navigators, captains and leaders.” “Generosity, identity, empathy and authenticity are the necessary ingredients for a healthy community.”
10 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | MUNICH
OVER 21,000 ALUMNI IN MORE THAN 120 COUNTRIES Dr. Julius Niedvaras Director, International Business School, Vilnius University Born in the city of Plungė in Lithuania, Dr. Niedvaras is a major player in Eastern European banking and education. Although he started his professional career in publishing he soon discovered a gift for the financial markets and realized that his future lay elsewhere. In 1989 he set up Vilnius Bank with a singular vision: to assemble a
team of leading professional bankers and promote a high level of transparency within the organization.The bank took a decisive step forward when in 1993 Dr. Niedvaras ordered an international audit, enhancing Vilnius Bank’s reputation, boosting client confidence and attracting foreign investors. Now operating as CEO, he ensured
Dr. Julius Niedvaras and Dr. Sergey Kalendzhyan with President Craen
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 11 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | MUNICH
Dr. Sergey Oganovich Kalendzhyan Dean, Graduate School of Corporate Management, Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration Dr. Kalendzhyan studied at the Faculty of Economics of the Lomonosov Moscow State University, the oldest and largest university in Russia, where he graduated with Doctorates in Economic Sciences and Business Administration. He completed a number of supplementary courses and internships in educational and scientific centers outside of his native Russia and is a member of the International Academy of Organizational Sciences.
Dr. Kalendzhyan leads international training programs with prestigious universities around the world His career in corporate training and business education has been centered on his key areas of expertise: corporate governance, outsourcing, project management, marketing, change management and corporate restructuring. As a result he has directed and participated in the corporate training and consulting programs at top Russian companies including SOGAZ Insurance Group Milestones, GAZ Group, Novolipetsk, MGTS and Altai-energy. He is also a member of the Scientific and Technical Board for oil giant Gazprom. Dr. Kalendzhyan is an honorary economist of the Russian Federation. The author of several MBA coaching texts, he is currently dean at the prestigious Graduate School of Corporate Management, RANEPA in Moscow. In this capacity he has coordinated joint international training programs with Harvard Business School, the University of Toronto, IESE Business School, the Academy of Management AFW and European University, among others.
long-term development and success in 2000 when Vilnius Bank became part of the Swedish investment bank SEB. By 2006 the bank was the largest and most profitable in Lithuania with 1,000,000 clients and over 1,000 employees. Attended by 2,500 students, Vilnius University International Business School is the premier Lithuanian center for higher education in business and Dr. Niedvaras
has been closely involved in the activities of the school since 2000, when he was invited to sit as chairman of the council. In 2006 he was appointed director and since then has guided the school to its highest international
Under Dr. Niedvaras, Vilnius Bank became the largest and most profitable bank in Lithuania
rankings and established links with highprofile global organizations such as EFMD, confirming a commitment to the continuous improvement of business education.
12 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | MUNICH
Dr. Erich Lejeune CEO of the Lejeune Academy Quick to recognize the potential of the microchip, Dr. Lejeune became instrumental in the emerging German market and was a pioneer of e-commerce. His vision was rewarded with such success that he was able to open branches in the technological heartlands of Tokyo in 1979 and Silicon Valley, USA in 1981. He confirmed his status as a global business visionary by creating the world’s first virtual stock exchange for microchips in 1999, taking the stock market value of his company to over 3 billion Deutschmarks. His guidance at the head of Consumer Electronic AG has seen him awarded the European Crystal Globe Prize for Business and he also holds the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. Dr. Erich Lejeune’s life story “embodies the rags to riches dream”. Growing up in the Bavarian village of Dorfen, he took the crucial step away from his vocational training as a Munich wholesaler and towards life as an entrepreneur in 1961. After building a solid reputation as a leader in sales in the electronics sector, he founded Consumer Electronic AG in 1976.
Dr. Lejeune shares the principles and strategies of his success via the Lejeune Academy for Philosophy & Motivation which he founded in 2003.
values, in 2001 he donated 750,000 Consumer Electronic AG shares to the city of Munich for the benefit of state kindergardens and retirement homes. Taking time out from his busy professional schedule in 2003 he founded Heart for Heart – Foundation for Life making heart surgery, its diagnosis and rehabilitation available to needy patients in Germany and abroad. EU is committed to the continuing support of Dr. Lejeune’s charity.
Dr. Lejeune created the first stock exchange for microchips in 1999, founded the Lejeune Motivational Academy and the Heart for Heart Foundation
He is the popular host of his own TV program ‘Lejeune’, broadcast by Munich TV, tv.Berlin and U1. An advocate of sustainable market
Mrs. Innegrit Volkhardt CEO of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof Group Mrs. Volkhardt graduated from the Munich International School in 1983 before moving on to an apprenticeship in hotel management. She worked closely with management staff at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof while completing her studies at Munich University and in 1994 became general manager of the hotel. The Bayerischer Hof Hotel has been owned by the Volkhardt family for over a hundred years. Since Mrs. Volkhardt took over at the helm the hotel has won Best Wellness-Hotel and the World’s Best Spa City Resort, as well as first place in German Grandhotel’s German Gourmet Magazine. She is currently owner and CEO of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof group that comprises Hotel Bayerischer Hof, Hotel Zur Tenne and Weinkellerei (wine wholesale).
Recent personal awards include Entrepreneur of the Year (Veuve Cliquot), Hotelier of the Year (NGZ-Der Hotelier) and the Bayerische Staatsregierung Medal for Exceptional Contribution to the Bavarian Economy. She strives to deliver value to the customer within a sustainable family business model. She is a member of the 1001 Club, a trust of leading business personalities worldwide who are key contributors to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). She also sits on the influential Wirtschaftbeirat der Union, an economic think-tank of the Bavarian government.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 13 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | MUNICH
European University President Dirk Craen presents Erich Lejeune with a donation for ‘Hearts for Hearts’
14 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | MUNICH
TAILOR-MADE EDUCATION IS OUR TECHNOLOGY! EU graduates enter the professional world with the skills and knowledge to excel and innovate
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 15 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | MUNICH
16 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | MUNICH
WE ARE DIFFERENT WE ARE FLEXIBLE WE ARE GLOBAL
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 17 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | MUNICH
EU IS MUCH MORE THAN A UNIVERSITY– IT IS A NETWORK
18 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 STUDENT SPEECH | MUNICH
Student Speech
INNOVATIVE AND ENTREPRENEURIAL FOCUS Thomas Ruschke Germany President of the Student Board “European University provided an international experience, not only because of the various campuses, but also in a cultural dimension in each and every classroom – something that I think you might only begin to appreciate in the coming years” Mr. Ruschke said, praising his EU experience in his address. The skills and experiences acquired at EU were the result of hard work and dedication that is now paying off as he and his fellow graduates move into the professional world.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 19 SPECIAL AWARDS | MUNICH
SPECIAL AWARDS Best Bachelor’s Student
Best Bachelor’s Thesis
Best MBA Student
Theresa Hammele Germany
Christoph Zieger Austria
Catherine Basilides-Schwarz The Philippines
Graduating Summa Cum Laude from European University Munich with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration, Theresa Hammele earned the highest GPA in her class, consistently demonstrating extraordinary academic performance throughout her studies at EU, impressing her professors and classmates and setting on her track to a very promising career.
In Mr. Zieger’s award-winning thesis, he analyzes residual value management in the automobile leasing business, arguing that “there are several promising measures that benefit residual values. It is essential that manufacturers, dealerships and independent leasing firms realize the importance of residual values as a strategic long-term goal.”
Ms. Basilides-Schwarz exhibited an extremely impressive academic aptitude during her time at European University Munich. EU was proud to award her the distinction of Summa Cum Laude upon graduation. Her work ethic and business acumen will serve her well in her future career in international marketing, her Master’s specialty.
Best MBA Capstone
Kenneth Weiss Germany
Mr. Weiss’ thesis “Goldman Sachs and the Next 11: A Fundamental Analysis of the Subsequent Generation of Emerging Markets” examines the shift of economic power from the United States and Europe to emerging economies, specifically analyzing and scrutinizing the report carried out by Goldman Sachs, “the Next 11”, in which they introduce a set of eleven countries, which, in their opinion, will rival global economic powers by 2050.
Prince Fellow Award Best Professor
Peter Schmidt Germany
Professor Peter Schmidt was awarded the Prince Fellow Award for best professor, an annual honor presented by the students to the professor of their choosing. Professor Schmidt was recognized for his special dedication to his students, his meticulous and interesting curriculum and his interactive teaching style. Professor Schmidt thanked the students for their intellectual curiosity and hard work throughout his courses.
20 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | MUNICH
COCKTAIL RECEPTION MUNICH
Cocktail Reception at Bayerischer Hof Hotel, Munich The ceremony was followed by a cocktail party in the majestic ambience of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof. The graduates celebrated their achievements in the company of family, friends, EU faculty, staff and distinguished guests. Among the guests were Dr. Georg Petritsch of Accenture, Melanie Seifert of Blancpain watchmakers, Tino Schöninger of Datenwerk GmbH, Silke Littmann of TV Bayern and Hans-Christoph Freiherr von König of Sicherheitsdienst König.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 21 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | MUNICH
22 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 SWITZERLAND
EU SWITZERLAND Commencement Ceremony 15 June 2011
Professor Stef de Jong
Dr. Dirk Craen
Dr. Jean-Charles Turrian
European University Switzerland’s Commencement Ceremony took place in the beautiful setting of the Lausanne Palace & Spa. 67 Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate students representing 37 nationalities were proud to graduate from EU and were joined on this very special day by VIP guests, friends and family members.
The 2011 Master of Ceremonies was Professor Stef de Jong from European University’s Geneva and Montreux campuses.
but to “think of the environment, the people you employ, the customers you serve and the people who rely on you… this is what separates a good business from a great business.” He closed his speech by encouraging networking and taking advantage of any opportunities to pursue a career and life which is creative, ambitious and unique.
European University was honored to welcome prestigious figures including Dr. Jean-Jacques Gauer, director of Lausanne Palace & Spa; Dr. Alain Delamuraz, executive vice president and head of marketing of the luxury watchmakers Blancpain; Dr. Y. Bhg. Datuk Yeo Boon Hai, directorgeneral of Kota Kinabalu city hall; Ms. Aminata Diallo, professor of philosophy, Bobo-Dioulasso School, Burkina Faso; and Mrs. Anne Rosat, artist and humanitarian.
Dr. Jean-Jacques Gauer gave the commencement address. Dr. Gauer took the opportunity to share his vision of business values which he has acquired through years as a successful hotelier. Relating the history of hotels in Montreux, which was once a small farming village on Lake Geneva and is now a global destination and “the Pearl of the Swiss Riviera”, he explained that the hotel business is not just a leisure industry, but one that “has a huge impact on its social and economic environment.” Not limiting his speech to the hotel industry, he urged students not to think of a successful career only for themselves
EU President Dr. Dirk Craen followed with his inspirational speech and honored the graduates with words of encouragement and congratulated them on their achievements. He asked the graduates to look forward to their future careers and asked them to apply the skills learned at EU to adapt to the pace of global change. Honorary doctorates were awarded to Dr. Gauer, Dr. Delamuraz, and Dr. Hai.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 23 SWITZERLAND
BE GLOBAL, THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL
Dr. Jean-Jacques Gauer - Doctor Honoris Causa
Dr. Alain Delamuraz - Doctor Honoris Causa
Dr. Y. Bhg. Datuk Yeo Boon Hai - Doctor Honoris Causa
Five King Fellow Awards were presented at this year’s ceremony:
To the World Wildlife Fund for successful dedication to environmental sustainability over the last 50 years.
Finally, EU alumnus Richard Chance Saint Marche announced that, beginning in 2012, his family’s non-profit organization, the Saint Bernard Pass Charitable foundation, will mint 15 medallions each year to award excellence in business.
To Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud and Carolina Moeller for distinguished involvement in implementing environmental sustainability programs.
Ms. Aminata Diallo and Mrs. Anne Rosat - King Fellow Award
To Aminata Diallo and Anne Rosat for distinguished excellence in social responsibility and charity aid.
Dr. Dirk Craen with Richard Chance Saint Marche
12 of the medallions will be presented to companies or organizations which have demonstrated distinction in the areas of corporate social responsibility, sustainability, leadership and family business. One medallion will then be presented to an MBA graduate from each EU campus who exemplifies innovative entrepreneurship.
24 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | SWITZERLAND
Dr. Jean-Jacques Gauer Director, Lausanne Palace & Spa A native of Bern, Switzerland, Dr. Gauer’s family has a long and proud hotelier tradition. Dr. Gauer graduated from the prestigious Ecole Hotelière de Lausanne in 1974 and started his successful career at The Schweizerhof, the family’s hotel in Bern. He has since become a leading figure in the luxury hotel industry and was chairman of the luxury hospitality organization Leading Hotels of the World from 1990 until 2010, representing the global interests of more than 450 of the world’s finest resorts and hotels. Since 1996 Dr. Gauer has been general manager and member of the board of
The hotel business is not just a leisure industry, but one that has a huge impact on its social and economic environment. directors for both the Lausanne Palace & Spa and Château d’Ouchy in Switzerland. Under his management the holdings have tripled in value and doubled their staff. In 2011 the Swiss hospitality industry honored him with the European Hospitality Foundation Award, attesting to his status as one of the leading hoteliers worldwide.
Dr. Hai was born in the Malaysian state of Sabah in 1956. He completed his education in the UK starting at Acton Technical College London followed by a BSc Honors from the University of London in 1979. Upon moving back to his native Malaysia he began his political career with the Malaysian government.
Highlights from Dr. Gauer’s Speech: “You have gained a fantastic education here at the European University. This is only part of the equation though. The other part is about your ability to build bridges, to reach out to others and create a rich, solid network.” “Don’t take risks and you will fail. The greatest enemy of success isn’t failure but the fear of failure.”
Dr. Y. Bhg. Datuk Yeo Boon Hai / Director-General, Kota Kinabalu City Hall
He has held a number of influential positions such as head of the environmental unit at the ministry of tourism & environment, principal assistant director of public services (department of Malaysia) and district officer for the cities of Beaufort and Kudat. He is currently the director-general of Kota Kinabalu City Hall, the capital of
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 25 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | SWITZERLAND
Dr. Alain Delamuraz Executive Vice President and Head of Marketing, Blancpain Born in Switzerland, Dr. Delamuraz is the Executive Vice President and Head of Marketing for the luxury watchmakers Blancpain. He studied Business and Hotel Management in Lausanne before pursuing a career in hotel management in London, Zurich and Quito. When he returned to Switzerland he served as the General Director of the Beau-Rivage Palace Hotel in Lausanne from 1991–1996. His career with Blancpain began soon after and over the last 15 years he excelled in the departments of international distribution, sales and marketing, leading to his current appointment as Executive Vice President and Head of Marketing. In addition to his responsibilities at Blancpain,
Sabah State and home to one of the many European University worldwide campuses. In 1995, the Junior Chamber International Malaysia named him Outstanding Young Malaysian. In 2010 the Governments of Sabah and Malaysia recognized his 30 years of excellence in service by presenting him with the title of Commander of the Order of Kinabalu.
Ix A =R INTEGRITY (I) AUTHENTICITY (A) REPUTATION (R)
The world’s oldest watchmaking brand, Blancpain draws inspiration from tradition to surprise by its spirit of innovation and taste for the provocative Dr. Delamuraz also leads other high-profile projects for Blancpain’s parent company, the Swatch Group. He was recently involved in the restoration of the Swatch Art Peace Hotel in Shanghai that will function as a regional showcase for Swatch. Apartments in the hotel are occupied exclusively by artists who live, work and exhibit their creations there.
26 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | SWITZERLAND
Ms. Aminata Diallo Professor of Philosophy, Bobo-Dioulasso School
Maïa Association For education and health
Ms. Diallo grew up in the backdrop of the nationwide social political disruption of Burkina Faso in the 1980’s. Although she was able to pursue her studies and become a high school teacher, it was during this time that she became aware of the lack of practical training and education for the majority of the Burkina women.
Some time ago European University financed the construction of two flour mills in the village of Yirwal in Burkina Faso, making contact with Mrs. Anne Rosat, who coordinates sustainable charity projects in the West African nation. Mrs. Rosat met Prof. Aminata Diallo at an educational congress in 2001 and from there developed a successful working relationship for the improvement of life in the region. Their latest venture has secured financing for a fully-equipped sewing workshop and the improvement of sanitary conditions within Yirwal. EU continues to support humanitarian projects in Yirwal and in developing communities throughout the world.
Mrs. Anne Rosat Artist and Humanitarian
“To educate a woman is to educate a nation” says Ms. Diallo and in 1994 she brought this motto to life with the foundation of the Maïa Association. Maïa has since been providing the women of Burkina Faso with practical household and health education, raising literacy levels and awareness of women’s and children’s rights under the law.
“To educate a woman is to educate a nation” Mrs. Rosat was born in Belgium but has been a resident in Château d’Oex in the Swiss canton of Vaud since 1958. She presides over many different humanitarian associations and her role as the coordinator of the Maïa Association in Switzerland means that she is key to European University’s social responsibility projects in Burkina Faso. She is also an artist, most famous for her extraordinary découpage work which can be found in galleries and museums around the world.
She has been recognized for her work by the Higher Commission of Burkina Faso and has received an award from the US association ASHORA for her creativity and innovation in the field of social work. Her projects are regularly supported by the Global Fund for Children in Washington.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 27 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | SWITZERLAND
WWF One Planet Leaders European University welcomes its representatives Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud and Caroline Moeller, representatives of World Wildlife Fund’s One Planet Leaders program attended the 2011 commencement in Switzerland to receive King Fellow Awards for their commitment to promoting environmental sustainability in the business world. The One Planet Leaders program is an executive training course aimed at instructing business leaders in sustainability practices. WWF understands that sustainability has to appeal to businesses not only from a public relations standpoint, but has to positively affect their bottom-line as well. According to WWF, many executives understand the importance of sustainability but do not know how to implement it to their benefit. The One Planet Leaders program instructs professionals on how to leverage sustainability for the advantage of their business model. The Executive Program equips leaders with clear strategies on how to embed sustainability into their business plan, using it to drive
innovation in addition to offering the opportunity to develop a network of like-minded professionals. The objective is that best sustainability practices which are successfully integrated into thriving business models will lead to an organic growth of such practices in today’s interconnected global economy. The program includes a four-day executive workshop; one month implementation support; support to develop strategic action plans; sustainability management tools;
Mr. Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud
Ms. Caroline Moeller
In today’s global economy, successful, sustainable practices will expand organically solutions-focused learning tailored to the individual business; networking, learning and co-creation platform; and learning materials and tools to help build One Planet Teams in businesses.
One Planet Leaders. Sustainability can drive innovation.
The director of corporate relations at WWF International, Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud is the founder of the One Planet Leaders program. With extensive experience in forestry management, and a Master’s from Oxford University in Forestry and Land Management, Mr. Jeanrenaud was appointed head of the Business and Industry Relations Unit at WWF International in 2000. His current responsibilities include planning and leading B&I policy work for the WWF Network and developing innovative business partnerships for sustainable development.
The head of business education at WWF International, Caroline Moeller is the co-director of One Planet Leaders. Ms. Moeller started her career in brand management at Proctor and Gamble before joining WWF in 2008. As the designer of the One Planet MBA, Ms. Moeller is an essential contributor to WWF’s business education program, and an integral member of WWF’s business outreach team.
28 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | SWITZERLAND
ONE UNIVERSITY– ONE NETWORK
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WE DEVELOP LEADERS WHO DEVELOP PEOPLE WHO DEVELOP BUSINESS
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 31 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | SWITZERLAND
Real world experience and individual attention: exceptional faculty molds extraordinary scholars
32 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 STUDENT SPEECHES | SWITZERLAND
Bachelor’s Speech
Sarah Emgeg Germany BBA Graduate
The Bachelor’s graduates were represented by Sarah Emgeg who addressed the audience with pride for their accomplishments throughout their studies at EU. She dedicated her speech to her father, whose expectations she has always hoped to live up to, and she credited EU with giving her a sense of direction with which to do so. “It is the knowledge as well as the skills and tools I was given by my professors that I now know I have the ability to make a difference”, she said. She encouraged the young people of her generation to pursue greatness in life, professionally and personally. Lastly, she thanked European University for the opportunities it has given her and her fellow graduates.
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO 9:1 MBA Speech
Lara Mottier Switzerland Student Board representative Ms. Mottier opened her speech by congratulating her fellow graduates and thanking her professors and the administration for the honor of representing the MBA students. She stressed that education not be taken for granted, quoting Joseph Addison: “Education is a companion which no misfortune can depress, no crime can destroy, no enemy can alienate. At home, a friend, abroad, an introduction, in solitude a comfort and in society an ornament. It defeats vices, it guides virtue, it gives at once grace and government to genius.” Praising EU’s multicultural environment she said “European University has brought us all to where we are today through its quality education, provided to us in a small community of multicultural working professionals, with exceptional background experience. “This family environment brought us all closer together creating a feeling of safety and belonging. The small classes enabled our professors to take the time to guide us on a one to one basis, giving us the chance to have individual assistance when needed, and an opportunity that is unique to private education.” Lara closed her speech by thanking her parents “who have given me the possibility to dare, the courage to excel, and the belief that I can achieve my best when working for it.”
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 33 SPECIAL AWARDS | SWITZERLAND
SPECIAL AWARDS EU awards students who are truly committed to education inside and outside the classroom. These young graduates are high achievers who deserve to be encouraged and awarded for their hard work. Best Bachelor’s Student
Raphael Azubike Evoeme Nigeria
Best Bachelor’s Thesis
The award for the best Bachelor’s student for the academic year 2010-2011 went to Raphael Azubike Evoeme. With an outstanding grade point average and exceptional commitment and dedication to his studies that earned him the Magna Cum Laude distinction, Mr. Evoeme was rewarded for his consistently excellent academic performance.
Best MBA Student
Stepan Frantenko Russia
Best MBA Capstone
The award for the best Master’s student for the academic year 2010-2011 went to Stepan Frantenko from Russia. With an outstanding grade point average that earned him the Magna Cum Laude distinction, Mr. Frantenko was honored for his consistently exceptional academic performance, showing an excellent grasp of analytical, communication and leadership skills.
Prince Fellow Award Best Professor
Zdravko Tumbovski Macedonia
Mr. Tumbovski, whose Bachelor’s thesis was recognized as the best in his class, writes about his project leading the Macedonian investment company Info Group in the purchase, renovation and resale of a residential and commercial building in Skopje, Macedonia. In his thesis, he argues that despite the burst of the global housing economy, property in Skopje has potential for real estate investors. He continues to explain how he and Info Group can successfully profit from the market’s demand and establish a formidable reputation in the real estate market in Skopje.
Valentina Gizza Italy
Ms. Gizza’s Master’s capstone explores gender diversity in the business world, specifically addressing how companies with three or more women in the leadership team scored higher in terms of return on equity than their counterparts with fewer women in management positions. Examining the multinational DuPont – a company with a female CEO since 2008 and various female executives – Ms. Gizza’s capstone posits that the company, compared to eighteen of its competitors over a five year period (20052009), performed better in many respects to that of companies with less women represented in management.
Each year, EU students choose a faculty member who exemplifies the best of their profession based on their exceptional classroom instruction and exemplary guidance throughout the degree program.
John Kwo Mauritius
The 2011 recipient of the Prince Fellow Award was given to John Kwo, Professor of Management. Professor Kwo’s ability to relate real-world business experience to the classroom and his dedication to his students on an individual basis have helped turned students into scholars and entrepreneurs and for this, European University Switzerland is pleased to officially recognize his excellence in teaching.
34 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | SWITZERLAND
COCKTAIL RECEPTION SWITZERLAND
Cocktail Reception at the Lausanne Palace & Spa The ceremony was followed by a cocktail party at the Lausanne Palace & Spa, with a spectacular view of Lake Geneva. The graduates celebrated their achievement in the company of family, friends, EU professors, staff and honored guests. While enjoying a buffet of Asian fusion cuisine and drinks, guests were entertained by a DJ and savored the luxurious ambience as the celebrations continued into the evening, making it a night to remember on a very special occasion. Distinguished guests included Baroness Mia Doornaert, advisor to Belgian prime minister Yves Leterme, Ivan Haralambof, director of Swiss International Airlines in French-speaking Switzerland, and Philippe Leuba, interior minister of the Swiss canton of Vaud.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 35 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | SWITZERLAND
36 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 BARCELONA
EU BARCELONA Commencement Ceremony 18 June 2011
Dr. Cristina Tomás i Pérez
Professor Gilbert Lenssen - King Fellow Award
Dr. Dirk Craen
European University Barcelona’s 2011 Commencement Ceremony honored 102 graduates and over 500 guests in the exclusive Pullman Barcelona Skipper Hotel. The annual event was also attended by EU Alumni chapter heads from across the European and Asian campus networks.
Professor Gilbert Lenssen, President of the Academy of Business in Society (EABIS), focused his commencement address on the need for a shift to sustainable enterprise and outlined recommendations for an innovative European strategy to create a new type of sustainable business model known as “shared value” which calls into question both the shareholder model as well as traditional corporate social responsibility, and refocuses capitalism in a way that sustains society and business reciprocally.
contract in order to promote sustainable business practices leading to societal wealth across all levels.
The festive occasion was hosted by EU MBA Director Dr. Cristina Tomás i Pérez who welcomed the commencement procession and guests and dedicated the event to the success of the students. Dr. Tomás i Pérez then introduced the first guest of honor, professor Gilbert Lenssen.
The Anglo-American shareholder value business model, he argued, has contributed to the current economic crisis by encouraging financial managers to focus solely on short-term financial gains for shareholders when they should instead endeavor to create a new business-social
Quoting Professor James Fleck’s 2009 article in the Financial Times, he underscored the importance of innovative business schools like EU who recognize corporate social responsibility as part of the solution: “Business schools need an injection of new and alternative thinking. Without fresh ideas schools may face further crises and increasing irrelevance.” By making a substantial investment in knowledge and resources, he added, Europe has the opportunity to create wealth benefiting all companies, stakeholders and society.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 37 BARCELONA
THE GLOBAL CLASSROOM International, multicultural, multilingual and multitasking. The next generation of business leaders emerges EU President Dr. Dirk Craen then addressed students and commencement guests. He underlined the contrast of this generation of “millennials” – the multitaskers and social networkers – with his own generation, reflecting that despite rapid change the values of friendship, loyalty, transparency and respect will always retain their significance. He added that as graduates they be socially responsible, humble, invest in themselves, take courage in failure and be lifelong learners. He concluded with the EU code of conduct. Dr. Craen presented Professor Gilbert Lenssen, president of the Academy of Business in Society with a King Fellow Award for his outstanding contributions to business in society. Mr. Hans van Kasteren was awarded the King Fellow Award for excellence as an innovative entrepreneur and as a championship-leading manager for the Telenet-Fidea cyclo-cross team.
Highlights from Dr. Craen’s speech “You changed the world already with your social networking.” “Millennials are their parent’s greatest protégés and proudest creations.”
38 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | BARCELONA
Professor Gilbert Lenssen President, the Academy of Business in Society (EABIS) Professor Lenssen is president of the Academy of Business in Society (EABIS), an alliance of companies and business universities committed to putting business in society issues at the heart of management theory and practice. In 1975, Professor Lenssen joined British Petroleum (BP) where he excelled in leadership roles in the departments of Marketing, Human Resource Management, Corporate Affairs and Corporate Communications. Until 1995 he was stationed at BP offices across the world, from Germany to the UK, India and Spain. From 1995 to 1999 he kept BP at the forefront of the global solar energy market by securing major contracts in Asia in his position as global vicepresident of BP Solar International. He was also closely involved in the BP Sustainable Development Solutions Strategy for Africa.
Shared value is the future of sustainable corporate social responsibility With his presidency at EABIS combined with his expertise in sustainability, Professor Lenssen’s presence is in demand at some of the most prestigious academic institutions worldwide. He was Professor of Management at Leiden University and Visiting Fellow at Templeton College, University of Oxford. He is currently Visiting Professor at Cranfield University, Henley Management College and ENPC Paris. In 1995 he was made a Life Fellow at the Royal Society of Arts. He is a leading authority on corporate responsibility and co-authored the 2009 book “Mainstreaming Corporate Responsibility,” considered one of the most important and widely-used publications in the field.
Highlights from Professor Lenssen’s Speech: “Europe needs to make a substantial investment in intellectual and knowledge resources to lead the emerging process towards a new sustainable enterprise model and global governance architecture for sustainability.“ “Global companies face an increasingly complex business environment, amidst growing pressure from sustainability trends and stakeholder expectations.” “The decline of the Anglo-American model and the geopolitical shift to Asia provides a window of opportunity to be relevant or to fade into insignificance. “
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 39 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS | BARCELONA
Mr. Hans Van Kasteren General Manager, Team Telenet-Fidea A native of the Netherlands, Mr. Van Kasteren founded Interclean in 1980, an industrial cleaning company, and his innovative approach soon made the company a market leader. He consolidated his status as entrepreneur and creative force in the international business community with multiple startups in the 1980’s and 1990’s, mainly in the industrial cleaning sector. His professional life changed in 1999 when he met pro-cyclist Mr. Bart Wellens, soon becoming his manager and in 2005 he took on the Team Telenet-Fidea management role. Telenet-Fidea is a UCI (International Cycling Union) professional cycling team based in Belgium that competes predominately in the multi-terrain cyclo-cross discipline.
European University honors Cyclo-Crosschampion team manager Hans Van Kasteren Mr. Van Kasteren has since represented some of the sport’s top names, guiding the team to six world titles and securing vital sponsorship for the team’s future. As a result of his mentorship the next generation of Telenet-Fidea is enjoying continued success with its team leader, world champion Mr. Zdeněk Štybar. Mr. Van Kasteren is a consummate professional and an iconic leader in the world of cyclo-cross.
40 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | BARCELONA
ONE WORLD – ONE DREAM
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 41 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | BARCELONA
With substantial investment in intellectual resources, Europe can lead the process towards a new sustainable enterprise model and global governance architecture for sustainability Gilbert Lenssen
42 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | BARCELONA
AT EU THE ATMOSPHERE IS UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL. IN ALL PROGRAMS, FACULTY WORK WITH STUDENTS ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS
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REAL PEOPLE – REAL SOLUTIONS
44 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 STUDENT SPEECHES | BARCELONA
Bachelor’s Speech Kei Sugimoto Japan BBA Graduate Mr. Sugimoto opened his speech describing the special honor he felt to be standing in front of his fellow students. He related that his EU experience had only been possible because of the support that he had received from the accomplished professors, the international student body and of his family and friends. Kei expressed his appreciation at having the opportunity to study in such an environment that many people in the world can only dream of. For Kei, choosing a university was one of the most important decisions of his life and studying at EU has enriched him on a personal as well as an educational level but that ultimately “the most important thing is being able to talk with everybody”, adding that communication with people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds is what truly makes us smart. He ended with a quote from Alan Kay: “the best way to predict the future is to invent it”.
MBA Speeches Faridza Abbas The Philippines MBA Graduate This young scholar from the Philippines left her country to pursue an MBA at EU because, she said, “I wanted to learn how to guide and motivate people” as a manager. She finished her studies determined to be a leader. What is a leader? She discovered at EU that a leader is someone who brings purpose, trust and optimism to each and every endeavor to produce results. Faridza ended her speech thanking all her professors, colleagues, friends and family for helping her achieve the skills needed to achieve her dreams. Jafari Salwa Morocco MBA Graduate Ms. Salwa recalled the days she spent convincing her parents in Morocco why she should study in Barcelona, so far away from home. Would it be her qualifications as an MBA in global finance and banking? The sum knowledge gained in lectures and discussions? On graduation day, she addressed her father with the definitive answer: the Barcelona difference. The Barcelona difference “is in the students, it’s in the diversity of names, cultures, and experiences which we evoke from this great place” she said. She reminisced on her first days at EU, wondering if she made the right decision, and said that if she had to make the same decision again “I would choose EU Barcelona”. Acknowledging that “in real life there is no perfect market” and no guarantee of demand, she leaves EU with the key tools to face life in the professional world. She finished her speech thanking her fellow graduates for this memorable day.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 45 STUDENT SPEECHES | BARCELONA
46 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 SPECIAL AWARDS | BARCELONA
SPECIAL AWARDS Among all these achievers there were some students who deserve special mention for their exemplary efforts inside and outside of the classroom. Students with not only solid academic qualifications but also demonstrable achievements in extracurricular activities are certainly much more attractive to potential employers, which is why EU encourages student participation in all aspects of university life. Best Bachelor’s Student
Best Bachelor’s Thesis
Best MBA Student
Sebastian Gabor Romania
Kaspar Vaskans Latvia
Mark Dencker Denmark
The award for the best Bachelor’s student for the academic year 2010-2011 went to Sebastian Gabor from Romania. With an outstanding grade point average that earned him the Magna Cum Laude distinction, Mr. Gabor was rewarded for his consistently excellent academic performance.
“Does Nuclear Power Have a Place in the Future’s Sustainable Energy Development?” was the best Bachelor’s thesis, an honor bestowed upon Kaspar Vaskans from Latvia. His paper explores nuclear power as a viable energy source in modern society, examining how it is acquired and used, its effect on the environment and the political/industrial background of this controversial energy source. The thesis is especially appropriate given the March 2011 nuclear disaster in Japan.
The award for the best Master’s student for the academic year 2010-2011 went to Mark Dencker from Denmark. Graduating Summa Cum Laude, Mr. Dencker demonstrated academic excellence throughout his studies, showing an exceptional grasp of entrepreneurial skills and outstanding leadership qualities.
Prince Fellow Award Student Board
Best MBA Capstone
Mark Dencker Denmark
Mr. Dencker was also recognized for his Master’s capstone “Social Cash Management”, which studies the issue of cash management and how returns on cash investments can be used to invest in developing countries, creating jobs and growth while also delivering high returns on the same investments.
EU’s Prince Fellow award is bestowed upon those individuals who made distinguished contributions to student life through the Student Board.
Kei Sugimoto Japan
This year’s award was given to Mr. Kei Sugimoto, for his essential role in European University’s fundraising effort to alleviate the suffering caused by the March 2011 earthquake in Japan.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 47 SPECIAL AWARDS | BARCELONA
Prince Fellow Award Best Professor
Social Responsibility Award
Isabelle Balli Switzerland
Celine Roy Canada
Each year, EU students choose a faculty member who exemplifies the best of their profession based on their exceptional classroom instruction and exemplary guidance throughout the degree program. The 2011 recipient of the Prince Fellow Award was given to Isabelle Balli, professor of marketing.
European University is dedicated to instilling and encouraging the values of social responsibility in its student and faculty. It was with great pride that President Craen awarded the Medal of Social Responsibility to Professor Celyne Roy for her efforts as project manager of the Vicente Ferrer Foundation, an NGO working to improve the living conditions of the most disadvantaged groups in India.
EU is dedicated to promoting social responsibility worldwide, through its faculty, students, programs, and initiatives.
48 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | BARCELONA
COCKTAIL RECEPTION BARCELONA
Cocktail Reception at Hotel Pullman Barcelona Skipper Commencement was followed by an elegant cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception in the Pullman Barcelona Skipper hotel garden. Graduates celebrated their achievement in the company of family, friend, EU faculty and staff, and distinguished guests. In attendance were the Consuls General of Belgium, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Panama, Peru and Russia. A jazz duo entertained the many students, guests, EU trustees and the VIP guests who enjoyed the party into the night.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 49 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | BARCELONA
50 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | NICHOLS COLLEGE
NICHOLS COLLEGE Commencement Ceremony 07 May 2011 Dual Bachelor’s Degrees
Nichols College (NC) celebrated its commencement ceremony on May 7th, 2011. NC, located in Massachusetts, USA, is an EU academic partner in EU’s global network. Two EU students, Ekaterina Larinova from Russia, and Neli Zlatanova from Bulgaria, graduated with BBA from European University and a BSBA from NC from the dual degree program offered by the two universities. Graduating with two degrees from two prestigious business programs on two continents is sure to give these alumni an enormous competitive advantage in today’s global economy. The commencement speech was given by NC alumnus Keith T. Anderson, chief investment officer for Soros Fund Management. In his address, Anderson explained his ‘no jerk’ philosophy, arguing for a fierce but fair rivalry in the business world. He also urged graduates to seek a balance between their professional and personal lives. In attendance as part of the European University delegation was guest of honor Yves Leterme, prime minister of Belgium, accompanied by EU President Dirk Craen.
Prime Minister Leterme received an Honorary Doctorate in Public Administration in recognition of his dedication to public service. In the citation he was commended for his pragmatic and successful effort to encourage free enterprise, his fiscal discipline in balancing the budget and channeling resources to infrastructure, his commitment to European integration and his advocacy of a strong trans-Atlantic relationship. In his speech, Leterme underlined the importance of pursuing a profession that you love: “The best job is not necessarily the one which pays the most, but the one you like doing,” he said. “There is indeed a saying, and I quote, ‘If you want to be happy for one year, win the lottery. If you want to be happy for all of your life, do something you like.’ ”
Belgian Prime Minister Leterme Cited for Excellence in Public Service
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 51 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | NICHOLS COLLEGE
LIFELONG NETWORK Dual Bachelor’s Degree with Nichols College The dual degree offers students the opportunity to earn an American and European Bachelor’s degree at the same time. Students study five semesters at European University and two semesters at Nichols College, and graduate with a Bachelor’s degree from both institutions in only three years. In business, networking and developing partnerships are the essential formula for success in the global economy. European University and Nichols College have found such a partnership in the world of higher education. Both schools have the same core values: to deliver creative, cutting-edge business education to the next generation of business leaders.
52 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY | NICHOLS COLLEGE
Yves Leterme, Prime Minister of Belgium Born in 1960 in the Western part of Flanders, Mr. Leterme spent his childhood in Zillebeke and Ypres. He studied political science and law at the Kortrijk campus of the University of Leuven and at the University of Ghent, where his passion for politics, international relationships and administration flourished. Through work with politically active youth organizations in Ypres, he eventually joined the Christian Democratic Party, where he became chairman of the Ypres CVP-Youth. After subsequent posts as assistant to parliamentarian Paul Breyne and later in the cabinet of the regional minister Paul Deprez, Mr. Leterme joined the Belgian Court of Auditors in 1987 while staying active with CVP of Ypres, becoming chairman in 1988 and later national secretary in 1991. In 1992 Mr. Leterme became an administrator at the European Union, where he worked for five years. Later, as Minister-President of Flanders, he remained closely connected with European affairs while still remaining politically active in Ypres, becoming municipal councilor and alderman in 1995 and parliamentarian in 1997. In 2001 he became the CD&V faction leader in the House of Commons and in 2003 he became the party chairman. In 2004 Mr. Leterme became Minister-President of the Flemish government, taking a pragmatic course toward increasing the economic dynamic and social well-being in Flanders by successfully re-focusing investment in infrastructure and logistics. Additionally, Mr. Leterme’s government inherited a sizeable public debt which has been reduced to zero as the result of his economic policies. In the elections of June 2007 Mr. Leterme helped his party to a landslide victory and in December of that year he became Vice-Prime Minister of Belgium and Minister of Budget, Transport, Institutional Reform and the North Sea before receiving the confidence of the Chamber as Prime Minister in March 2008. Following a July 2009 government reshuffle, Leterme was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and in November 2009 once again became Prime Minister.
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 53 COCKTAIL RECEPTION | BARCELONA BARCELONA
54 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 GRADUATING STUDENTS
LIST OF GRADUATING STUDENTS UNDERGRADUATE Bachelor of Business Administration Firas Abuaskar, Finland Avetik Afrikyian, Armenia Martin Raun Bergholdt, Denmark Sidi Mohamed Bouzid, Morocco Daniel Duric, Switzerland Carolina Eder, Austria Ernesto Farres Piguillem, Spain Corentin Giraud, France Alexander Glogar, Austria Anton Dimitrov Hristov, Bulgaria George Ilieff, Bulgaria Robbert Kroeze, The Netherlands Miro Mazur, Austria Amal Soledad Medina Hernandez, Dominican Republic Ibrahim Mfarrej, Morocco Matthias Murges, Germany Markus Ochsenfeld, Germany Marc Pajerols Piulachs, Spain David Perez Pisa, Spain Marc Roig Ferre, Spain Paul-Carlos Rozsa, Austria Benjamin Sebagh, France Alex Servat Amat, Spain Malgorzata Szymanska, Poland Nina Szymanska, Poland Saad Touri, Morocco Alessandro Zandona, Italy Engku Putri Balquis Engku Mokhsin, Malaysia Annalena Koehler, Germany Ivan Karadzic, Serbia Miks Stabulnieks, Latvia Kaspars Vaskans, Latvia Karin Andersson, Sweden Gil Ataya, Lebanon Raphael Azubike Evoeme, Nigeria Batdelger Baatar, Mongolia Martin Boiron, Switzerland Ludwig Emmanuel Diogo, Germany Roman Filimonov, Russia Yodith Gideon, Ethiopia Hasti Haghparast, Iran Ahmed Saleh Jweida, Libya Daniel Kimanzi Muange, Kenya Fiona Liew Yin Yin, Malaysia Emanuel Mihaiescu, Romania Aygun Naghiyeva, Azerbaijan Nursultan Nakypbekov, Kazakhstan Levan Nathvlisshvili, Georgia Ganzorig Nergui, Mongolia Bekar Oikashvili, Goergia Rosemary Okailey Sampah, Ghana Nomiki Tsakkos, United States of America Zdravko Tumbovski, Macedonia Cynthia Vanvoorden, Belgium Thi Ngan Ha Vu, Vietnam Hsiao Kuan Wu, Taiwan Erdi Yazici, Turkey Christoph Zieger, Germany Yana Andreychikova, Russia Zahra Bonakdar, Iran Roxana Flores, Mexico Christiane Funke, Germany
Can Güler, Turkey Gilon Gutkin, Germany Theresa Hammele, Germany Fabian Jelavic, Germany Iliya Meshenliev, Bulgaria Estefania Pena, Peru Jennifer Radwanski, Germany Roderick Riquier, France Tobias Sahl, Germany Stefanie Schörghuber, Germany Raffael Sodano, Germany Johannes Störmer, Germany Adrián Vergé, Spain Janina Wunnicke, United States of America Anna Yesayan, Armenia Tatevik Yesayan, Armenia Ziad El Barag, Libya Pang Sze Ting Gianna, China Fong Shu Wing, China Law Chun Wai, China Ho Yuk Kuen Teresa, China Yeung Kwok Yan Alison, China To Kam Lung Danny, China Ho Sai Yiu, China Ho Man Ching Alice, China Chik Sau Ying, China Yiu Hoi Wa, China Ng Han Yang Ashely, Malaysia Ting Chek Vun, Kevin, Malaysia Andersson Karin, Sweden Cazarez Andres, Mexico Tsakkos Nomiki, United States of America Borovikova Yevgeniya, Russia Hasanov Anar, Azerbaijan Sannoo Nalin Eric, India Davletova Albina, Russia Kamal Tarek, Saudi Arabia Wang In Hee, Korea Yan Rui Guo, China Zhou Hong Yi, China Chen Bo Wen, China Chen Jian Huo, China Guo De Ming, China Guo Li Xiang, China Kim Sung Hee, Korea Li Xin Ze, China Lin Meng Duo, China Shaheen Hassan, India Zhu Chong Da, China Wu Jian, China Li Jun Ming, China Wang Zi, China Bilegdemberel Buyandelger, Mongolia Du Xiang Yang, China Gong Jin Yue, China Lu Si Bo, China Shin Si Nae, Korea Cao Thi Ngoc Minh, Vietnam Heng Yoong Meng Andy, Singapore Zeng Hui, China Bui Gia Khang, Vietnam Dang Huy Hoang, Vietnam
Fan He Hang, China Jin Ho Joon, Korea Kang Ning, China Li Li Yin, Taiwan Pan Jia Rong, China Pham Viet Hang, Vietnam Yang Sen, China Yang Shao Teng, China Geng Ling, China Li Jing Jing, China Do Thanh Nghia, Vietnam Yang Fan, China Tang Yu Liang, China Gong Xue, China Lu Yuan, China Wang Qi Jun, China Fu Zi Zhen, China Nguyen Minh Phuong, Vietnam Zhao Xiu Yuan, China Jiang Ping Ping, China Zhang Wei, China Shi Qi Long, China Zhou Ye, China Cheng Cheng, China Fei Jun Jie, China Hu Qian, China Le Dinh Minh, Vietnam Wang Fang, China Zhu Sai Hu, China Zhai Heng, China Le Hoang Chuong, Vietnam Zhang Lei, China Xie Ze Xin, China Zhang Fu Rong, China Aeksamutrchai Sudrit, Thailand Feng Cheng, China Yuan Mo, China Sun Hao, China Seo Sang Kyun, Korea Lu Wan Hui, China Han Xu, China Zhang Bing, China Ye Gun Hee, Korea Li Yi Bin, China Jiang An An, China Tan Yin Bo, China Feng Fan, China Cui Qian Hong, China Le Nguyen Hai, Vietnam Pham Quang Ngoc, Vietnam Huang Ke, China Wang Yao Xuan, China Wang Li Tong, China Yan Hong, China Li Peng Peng, China Hao Yu, China Zhao Chen, China Li Ou, China Zhang Lei, China
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 55 GRADUATING STUDENTS
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations Liang Zi Han, China Ganzorig Gansukh, Mongolia Wang Hong Yan, China Wei Wei, China Yaw Shann Moe Sanda, Myanmar Lin Jian, China Pan Xian, China Xu Meng Fei, China Xu Jia Hong, China Liang Bao Wen, China Kim Choong Nam, Korea Chen Ling Ling, China Lao Si Meng, Macao Pornthip Wisetthanarat, Thailand Yuan Kong Jia, China Fu Li Wen, China Jiang Nan, China Le Jian Bing, China Ren Jia Jia, China Sa Zhi Bin, China Xu Yang, China Pham Thu Ha, Vietnam Liu Zhen, China Liang Xiao Yi, China Pu Yi, China Xi Hao Meng, China Vu Hong Nhat, Vietnam Wang Yang, China Yang Liu, China Jin Tai, China Yang Zi Xiao, China Cao Jing, China Guo Cheng Jie, China Huang Wei Hua, China Wang Ye, China Wu Yi Tao, China Yang Jie, China Gu Shao Hui, China Wang Kai, China Luo Hong Tao, China Jin Xiang Yang, China Gao Zi Han, China Ma Xiao Xiao, China Hu Si Qing, China Yao Ke Ren, China Zhao Bing, China Gong Ying, China Chen Li, China Huang Chao, China Li Xiu Yuan, China Ding Yao, China Wang Cheng, China Xia Hou Xiao Xue, China Do Duc Toan, Vietnam Nguyen Thanh Long, Vietnam Ma Bin, China Hong Ji Hye, Korea Yu Cheng Cheng, China Chang Yao, China Chen Qiang Qiang, China Wu Jun Ying, China Leelasakultham Phanuwat, Thailand
Zhang Rui Yang, China Li Han, China Ganbaatar Bilguun, Mongolia Saruul Bayarmaa, Mongolia Yang Zi Lu, China Thammita Arachchilage Jayatilaka, Sri Lanka Liu Bing, China Ma Bin, China Ma Yan, China Wang Jing Wei, China Rawan Al Saman, Syria Mhd Ihsan Al Hakim, Syria Moutaz Kalout, Syria Aya Sayek , Syria Mohamed Al Taher Jammour, Syria Sara Mohammad Tarabishi, Syria Ruba Al Attar, Syria Siti Ayisha Mustafa Ali, Singapore Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Public Relations Yuliya Korgunyk, Ukraine Juliane Kristina Arndt, Germany Carima Elisabeth El Houri, Austria Shirin El Houri, Austria Hella Heiderich, Germany Abbey Moore, Australia
Suleymanov Orkhan, Azerbaijan Sarah Davina Emgeg, Germany Orkhan Suleymanov, Azerbaijan Sarah Berrada, Morocco Rebeca Briz Martinez, Spain Mariam Mojisola Folawiyo, Nigeria Anthony Walid Zaatar, Lebanon Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management Robin André Gérard Hilbrink, Belgium Olivier Bunoust-Roquère, France Randy Brangman, Bermuda Arsen Gasparyan, Armenia Kei Sugimoto, Japan Iakovos Vazaios, Greece Bachelor of Science in Business Finance Danyiar Kumekbayev, Kazakhstan
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Karol Radziszewski, Poland Bachelor of Science in Shipping Management
Bachelor of Arts in Leisure & Tourism Management Neelam Devi D/O Ram Rattan, Singapore Surein Sandrasageran, Singapore Yeo Hock Chai, Malaysia Alexandra Daniela Araya Heitfeld, Spain Andres Banus de Veer, Venezuela Aleksandra Belonic, Austria Daniel Schober, Austria Anja Radojicic, Serbia Chuluunbaatar Munkhsaikhan, Mongolia Quan Xi, China Dinh Thi Ngoc Hieu, Vietnam Do Hoa Mi , Vietnam Debahapuwa M.C.N.B. Chandrapala, Sri Lanka Cao Qi, China Cai Cheng Jian, China Sun Cheng, China Qiu Yue, China Liu Xin, China Yu Xin Mei, China Enkhbazar Temuulen, Mongolia Song Juan Juan, China Yan Hua Li, China Wang Hao Tong, China Wang Chao, China Cheng Jia Kun, China Haja Jahabardeen Kuthubudeen, Singapore Balakrishnan S/O Balaraju, Singapore Thirukumaran S/O Sankaran, Singapore
Kagan Durusel, Turkey Executive Bachelor of Business Administration Adrian Knoll, Israel alma Pharaoun, Syria Mohammed Al Qallaa , Syria Firas Arabi Katbi, Syria Hamzah Kabbani, Syria Mazen Moslmani, Syria Rami Fouad Shashati, Syria Bachir Al Hennawi, Syria Ahmad Ibrahim Al Wanny, Palestine Hassan Srour Mallah, Syria Ahmad Chamaa, United Kingdom Alaa Al Derie, Syria Faisal Al Fawaz, Syria Fadi Al-Eiti , Syria Ammar Baghdad, Syria Firas Asaad Khalil, Syria Yolla Nakkoul, Syria Anas Al Darh, Syria Noor Noore Ayeed, Iraq Amir Mardini, Syria Nisreen MHD Bdr El-Din Faisal, Syria
56 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 2011 GRADUATING STUDENTS
GRADUATE Master of Business Administration with a Major in International Business Hamouda Ben Ayed, Tunisia Stéphane Castrichella, Switzerland Maryana Churadze, Ukraine Ali Fadel, Libya Stepan Frantenko, Russia Valentina Gizzi, Italy Neema Angela Kalindaga, Switzerland Thelma Jessica Knowles, United States of America Marko Majkic, Serbia Martinus Johannes Mensen, The Netherlands Ziad Mrizag, Morocco Rosemary Nice Valentine Ndibalema, Tanzania Maria Alejandra Paez Palacios, Venezuela Arturo Paulino, United States of America Anzhelika Rozinova, Kazakhstan Mykhaylo Shevchenko, Ukraine Mohammad Amin Shokravi, Iran Amin Starcanin, Serbia Ganna Starodubtseva, Ukraine Aysylu Yanturina, Russia Low Shiang Ying, Malaysia Ayodeji Musa Akanbi, Nigeria Anna Maria Dubiella, Poland Martin Eiting, Germany Bahij Ghata, Syria Ainur Kuanysheva, Kazakhstan Osanna Nazaretyan, Armenia Edgar Petyke, Romania Nicole Reiss, United States of America Lyaysan Sharipova, Russia Meri Hovsepyan, Armenia Maria Dazhina, Russia Alina Hatti, Germany Sebastian Hellers, Germany Dennis Kroeze, The Netherlands Josephine Lindahl, Sweden Mercheri Yacine, Algeria Radzibaev Damir, Russia Cha Kit, Malaysia Mohammed Salleh, Malaysia Noor Zaman, India Gacusana Emerson Gadia, India Suresh Rakesh, India Singh Manish Shyamraj, India Luvsannyam Gankhuyag, Mongolia Zhang Fan, China Le Tung Lam. Vietnam Lu Yue Bo, China Nguyen Van Tan, Vietnam He Zhi Ping, China Le Anh Tuan, Vietnam Zhang Yuan, China Samuel Seethal, India Thuruthelil Abdul Khader Anoob, India He Shi Qi, China Wei Wei, China Xu Qing, China Samuel Sujith, India Rathor Bhawar Singh, India
Ding Jia Ling, China Gu Lei Bin, China Zhang Guan Lu, China Lai Fang, China Gu Er De, China Tran Duc, Vietnam Zhu Ming, China Nguyen Duc Anh, Vietnam Seng Seak Huor, Cambodia Sajan Vijayan, India Nguyen Ha Tuan, Vietnam Trinh Kim Long, Vietnam Hassan Shaheen, India John Prakas, India Lee Sze Wan Angel, China Lu Sio Kit Stanley, China Kwok Siu Lan Sheena, China Cheung Chun Shing, China Leung Shu Wing, China Loi Tien Heion, China Ting Kok Rong Adrian, China Angela Thomas, Germany Yordanka Georgieva Tosheva, Bulgaria Omar Trejo Martinez, Mexico Wael Mohammad Eid Al Mounakel, Syria Amer Khalil Mouases, Syria Bana Al Bahnasi, Syria Mohamed Ayham Alsharif, Syria Ammar Ahmad Halabi, Syria Salah Zater, Syria Mohieddin Alshaar, Syria Malaz Ghatfan Alrifai, Syria Ibrahim Mansour, Syria Mhd Yaman Alsabban, Syria Mohamad Saleh Alcheble, Syria Aghiad Shaqfeh, Syria Nawar Baroudi, Syria Mohamed Nadeem Mohamed Amin Al-Jafary, Syria Mohammad Bisher Al-Attar, Syria Mohamed Maen Akbik, Syria Mashal Y. Ojjeh, Syria Raghid Halawani, Syria Marwa Kamal Eddin Bunni, Syria Lama Munajjed, Syria Moaaz Tanatra, Syria Roula Serieh, Syria Mouna Nabil Shakkour, Syria Adel Thabet Al lulu, Syria Rami Bassit, Syria Mohammad Talal Khlief, Jordan Wesam Tayseer Al Masalmah, Syria Eyad Al-Shami, Syria Manal Al Kassem, Syria Mhd. Hasan Al-Halabi, Lebanon Mhd. Maher Al Selk, Syria Mostafa Malas, Syria Mohamad Muhannad Al Homsi, Syria Mortaza Ganjeh Zadegan, Iran Qays Muhamad Al Khalili, Syria
Mohammad Seraj Aldin, Syria Abeer Omar Al Kayal, Syria Huda Ibraheem Al Najjar, Palestine Reem Ghassan Abdulfattah, Syria Khaled Muhieddin Kalaly, Saudi Arabia Master of Business Administration with a Major in Communication & Public Relations Oluwunmi Temitope, Nigeria Mottier Lara, Switzerland Omotoyos, Nigeria Sabina Alasgarova, Azerbaijan Suraya Alasgarova, Azerbaijan Lisa Lichtenegger, Austria Nargiz Karabayeva, Kazakhastan Nadezhda Khamitova, Kazakhastan Katarzyna Ksiazkiewicz, Poland Duru Antoinette Uchenna Ngozi, Nigeria Master of Business Administration with a Major in International Marketing Low Shiang Ying Jamie, Malaysia Sonia Gueorguieva, Bulgaria Eugenia Ugbana Okoro, Nigeria Maximilian Bolten, Germany Carmen Garcia, Spain Stefanie Mayr, Austria Ioulia Galani, Greece Catherine Basilides-Schwarz, The Philippines Farah Ragheb, Canada John Andraos, United States of America Anna Antadze, Georgia Nargiz Karabayeva, Kazakhstan Leila Regragui, Morocco Ulvi Elçin Oglu Samadzade, Azerbaijan Olga Zapotichnaya, Russia Master of Business Administration with a Major in Global Banking & Finance Ishrat Batool, Pakistan Hervé-Alykhan Ladak, France Marta Moradiellos, Spain Alexey Nechaev, Russia Kenneth Weiss, Austria Xin Xin, China Mark Dencker, Denmark Neda Kojovic, Serbia Salwa Jafari, Morocco Na-amah I Rahming, Bahamas
2011 | EU COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES | 57 GRADUATING STUDENTS
DOCTORATE Master of Business Administration with a Major in Leisure & Tourism Management
Doctorate of Business Administration
Cheng Faith Ching Yue, United Kingdom Hoang Quang De Le, Vietnam Thi Minh Hue Le, Vietnam Anna Veskova Stoytcheva, Bulgaria Tarik Achab Zekri, Morocco
Lai Ping Fu, Malaysia Lee Ka Kit , Malaysia Chin Yuk-Fong, Malaysia Chen Tsai-Ho, Taiwan Chiang Li-Teng , Taiwan Su Shu-Hua, Taiwan Yu Chen-Hua, Taiwan Mo Chi-Tung, Taiwan Mo Jenn-Dong, Taiwan Mo Shu-Liang, Taiwan Lai Mu-Chuan, Taiwan Lin Chih-Hung, Taiwan Huang Shan-Kuei, Taiwan Lin Su-Lin, Taiwan Chen Chun-Yueh Nadia, Taiwan Chen Chorng-Bor, Taiwan Wang Bo-Shing, Taiwan Sha Chow, Taiwan Fan Yang-Sung, Taiwan Li Kuei-Lan, Taiwan Li Yu-Ling, Taiwan Tsai Shiu-Chiung, Taiwan Huang Wen-Ta, Taiwan Kirill Kretov, Russia Hanan Al-Shafai, Jordan Nada Al Sati, Syria M Fady Kayyal, Syria Ali Mazen Derawan, United States of America Firas Al Jawabra, Syria Mohammad Cheikh Ibrahim, Syria
Master of Business Administration with a Major in Entrepreneurship Levan Guruli, Georgia Karlo Hahn, Croatia Aigars Laugalis, Latvia Cody Lumpkin, United States of America Kateryna Shyshova, Ukraine Simon Simonyan, Russia Benjamin Steifensand, Germany Vladimir Vuckovic, Serbia Neli Georgieva, Bulgaria Engku Putri Balquis Engku Mokhsin, Malaysia Uros Grujic, Canada Master of Business Administration with a Major in Leadership Teoman Haluk, Turkey Master of Business Administration with a Major in E-Business Roman Lyubimov, Russia Richard M.A Jennewein, Germany Master of Business Administration with a Major in Human Resources Management Irina Rimarenko, Russia Karolina Szydlowska, Poland Master of Business Administration with a Major in Casino Management Faridza Bai Aisha Alejandro Abbas, The Philippines Wang Yan, China Ziad Rafi, India Li Ying, China Chong Kok Lui, Singapore Wu Wen Hao, China Abdul Rahiem Zubair Ahamed, India
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