Celebrating Achievement and Lifelong Learning: 2025 Graduation Ceremony of TUM’s Executive MBAs and Master Programs

It was a truly special day – one filled with joy, pride, and meaningful moments – as graduates, their families, friends, faculty, and industry partners came together to honor this important milestone. The celebration reflected not only the accomplishments reached but also the dedication, growth, and community that shaped the journey.

A Heartfelt Welcome

The ceremony opened with an uplifting and motivating address from Prof. Dr. Claudia Peus, Founding Director of the TUM Institute for LifeLong Learning and Executive Vice President for Talent Management & Diversity at TUM. Prof. Dr. Peus praised the graduates’ dedication, resilience, and achievements, setting the tone for a day of recognition and reflection on personal and professional growth.

“As you step into the next chapter of your careers, I encourage you to carry forward not only the knowledge you gained here, but the curiosity, the courage and in particular the acceptance of responsibility that true leadership demands. Responsibility that extends beyond your particular job and your particular organization. […]

You are now part of a network of leaders who influence industries, organizations, and ideas. Use that influence wisely. Use it boldly. And use it to ensure that the equilibrium between technological progress and human dignity is not only maintained, but strengthened.”

Leadership Insights from Industry Experts

The ceremony featured a lively panel discussion with industry experts, all distinguished members of the TUM Institute for LifeLong Learning Advisory Board: Carolin Bautzmann (Zeppelin Rental GmbH), Esther Roman (Helvetia Insurance Group), Hartmut Schick (Daimler Truck Southern Africa), and Marcel de Vries (limango GmbH). The panelists shared their valuable experiences and perspectives on shaping the future in times of transformation, offering the audience fresh and strategic impulses.

“In times of growing uncertainty, teams look for clear guidance. Leadership today is about setting direction without slipping into micromanagement. Ultimately, people choose to follow leaders they genuinely respect – trust, integrity, and authenticity are what make leadership credible.”

Marcel de Vries

“The TUM Institute for LifeLong Learning is the right initiative to shape a sustainable future. It stands for professionalism, entrepreneurial spirit, and a broad foundation of expertise.”

Hartmut Schick

Recognizing Teaching Excellence

One of the special moments of the day was the presentation of the TUM Executive Education Award for Teaching Excellence to Prof. Dr. Oliver Alexy. Honored by students for his outstanding teaching and the lasting impact he has had on their learning journey, Prof. Dr. Alexy’s dedication and enthusiasm reminded everyone why studying at TUM is a transformative and inspiring experience.

Graduate Panel: Reflecting on the Journey

Graduates Carl Niermann (Executive MBA in Business & IT), Carolin Krebber (Executive MBA in Innovation & Business Creation), Doanna Breshna (Executive MBA), and Orlando Pasaret (Master in Management & Innovation) shared highlights from their academic and personal experiences at TUM, emphasizing the value of a supportive cohort, the strength of their networks, and the insights that will guide them in the years ahead.

Alumni Greetings

Peter So, representing the TUM Executive MBA Alumni Association, warmly invited the graduates to stay connected and engaged, reminding them that their journey with TUM continues beyond graduation.

The ceremony concluded with live music from the TUM Dixieland Combo Band and a festive reception in the Audimax foyer. Graduates, families, and friends shared memories, celebrated achievements, and marked the beginning of exciting new chapters.

TUM sincerely thanks all contributors – Academic Program Directors, Program Managers, professors, guest lecturers, speakers, moderators, and especially the graduates’ families and friends – for their dedication and commitment. Their expertise and unwavering support contributed significantly to making this journey a success.

The 2025 graduates leave TUM with sharpened perspectives, strong networks, and the confidence to lead responsibly in a complex, evolving world. While the program concludes, the insights and connections gained will continue to inspire and accompany them in the years ahead.

With Gratitude

• Academic Program Directors: Prof. Dr. Claudia Peus, Prof. Dr. Hana Milanov, Prof. Dr. Helmut Krcmar, Prof. Dr. Thomas Hutzschenreuter
• Program Managers: Jennifer Weißenberger, Josh Canedo, Melissa Siciliano, Paola Ruttkowski, Silke Klenk
• Moderator: Isabel Werdin, for guiding the ceremony with warmth and professionalism
• Professors, Guest Lecturers, and Expert Speakers: For their dedication to creating an outstanding learning experience
• Families and Friends of the Graduates: For their support throughout the program, helping make this achievement possible

Photo credits: All images by Thomas Linkel