Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman once said that “the most profitable investment is the one you make in yourself through education.” These words resonated throughout the CIS University graduation ceremony, held once again in the gardens of the Villa de Madrid Club de Campo, on an afternoon marked by emotion, gratitude, and shared dreams.
The gardens welcomed the graduating class and their families, with the participation of CIS University President Dr. Maria Diaz de la Cebosa, Endicott College Provost Dr. Sara Quay, Endicott College Dean of International Education Warren Jaferian, and CIS University Dean of Student Affairs Mary McCarthy, as well as members of the CIS faculty, in addition to families and friends of the students.
The ceremony began with the invocation of Warren Jaferian, who offered some serene and inspiring words. His message alluded to nature at a time when everything is silent, the fleeting few moments when day is turning into night. An almost supernaturally suspended period that, according to the speaker, we should also seek in our lives: pauses of calm and reflection amidst the noise of the world.
Dr. Maria Diaz de la Cebosa then delivered the keynote address, acknowledging the impact of artificial intelligence on our lives thusly: “The world you are graduating into today is very different from the one you found when you arrived at CIS University. Artificial intelligence has changed the rules, and has done so forever.” She also stressed the importance of keeping curiosity alive, living with purpose and being grateful for the road you have traveled. She enthusiastically invited students to stand up, turn around, and applaud their families as true supporters of this great achievement, and thanked them for their trust in the CIS University community.
Miguel Ángel Díaz, Director of New Way Coaching and guest of honor, touched all those who were present when he spoke about the power of inner change. His address was articulated around three brief stories that illustrated the same deep conviction centered around generosity as a motor for transformation. Using examples from close to home, Díaz distinguished between those who move forward motivated by self-interest and those who do so driven by the desire to give. And he emphasized how the latter, in the long run, often achieve a fuller life and greater professional recognition.
On behalf of the graduates, Sophie Mijares and Nicolas Isbell gave a joint speech full of emotion, gratitude, and humor. In front of their families, they recalled anecdotes from their years at CIS University, thanked their professors for their support, and encouraged their classmates to stay true to their values wherever they go.
The “Teaching Excellence Award 2025” was presented to Ricardo Estellés, professor from the Department of Business and Strategy, who is also the president of the Investment Club. Ricardo shared the professional journey that led him to CIS University, a path not without personal obstacles that he was able to transform into valuable lessons. His speech was also an invitation to perseverance, purposeful effort, and the courage necessary to face and overcome the difficulties that life presents.
Another highlight was a speech given by CIS University alumnus Fausto González, who took the podium to share his personal experience with the newly-graduating class. In a relatable speech, he compared life to a staircase: some steps are low and easy to climb, while others prove to be high, uneven or even slippery. “CIS University,” he concluded, “was not simply another rung on my path; it was the elevation from which I learned to visualize my entire ladder and make my own decisions.”
The ceremony concluded with the formal recognition of the academic journey and personal growth of the students. Beyond individual achievements, the collective effort, commitment to learning and maturity acquired during their time at CIS University were highlighted. In the same spirit of gratitude, a commemorative plaque was presented to Professor Doreen Metzner, who is ending her teaching career this year after almost three decades of exemplary dedication. Since her arrival at CIS University in 1996, Professor Metzner has been a pillar in the academic and human development of generations of students.
Dear class of 2025: “The road traveled so far is only the beginning. Today you close one chapter and open another one full of possibilities, challenges and learning. From all of us at CIS University, we congratulate you on this achievement and welcome you to a global community of alumni that continues to grow. The future is in your hands, so build it with knowledge, integrity and purpose!”
Congratulations to all graduates and welcome to the CIS University Alumni family!