From Monday, May 13, throughout the following week, Franklin University Switzerland was buzzing with excitement, leading up to the much-anticipated Commencement Ceremony. The week was filled with celebrations, starting from May 15, marking a series of memorable moments for our graduates and their families.
The festivities commenced soon after the senior presentations, when graduate students, along with their peers, families, and alumni, gathered for a Graduating Student Toast in the Kaletsch Conference Room and outdoors. Hosted by the Office of Student Life, this event featured a rich aperitif and was the perfect kickoff to a week full of celebration.
On Thursday, May 16, the spotlight was on academic excellence at the traditional Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Nielsen Auditorium. Here, outstanding students were recognized for their remarkable academic achievements and performances. The full list of student awardees can be found here.
Despite some rainy weather, the spirit of celebration was untouched as the evening continued with a Franklin tradition — the Alumni-Sponsored Boat Cruise on Lake Lugano. This event offered a unique perspective of Lugano and its enchanting surroundings, providing a beautiful backdrop for graduates, families, and alumni to mingle and celebrate.
Friday, May 17, was a day brimming with activities. The day began with a breakfast for students and their families, fueling up for a day full of events. The official rehearsal for the Commencement Ceremony followed, where students collected their caps and gowns and took a memorable group photo — a snapshot that will remain a cherished memory.
The sunny day also allowed families to explore the beauties of the surroundings with local photographer Igor Ponti, who led a photographic tour and masterclass around Sorengo and our campus. This was a fantastic opportunity for families to engage deeply with the environment that has been a significant part of their loved ones' academic journey.
The festivities continued with a cheerful aperitif on Mount San Salvatore, where everyone enjoyed the stunning views over Lake Lugano.
The culmination of these celebratory events was the Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 18. Held at the LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura, the ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of our graduates' accomplishments. The President, Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff were all present to congratulate and share in the excitement. The ceremony was filled with emotion, applause, and insightful speeches, including a compelling Commencement Address by Julio Frenk, President of the University of Miami. The day concluded with an aperitif in the LAC’s most scenic room, offering magnificent views and a perfect ending to the celebrations.
For those who missed the ceremony or wish to relive the excitement, the full recording is available to watch. As we look back on this special week, Franklin University Switzerland is proud to celebrate the achievements of our graduates and the vibrant community that supports them. Congratulations to all our graduates — here’s to new beginnings and the bright futures ahead!