Shizenkan University held a memorable graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 22, 2024, on the Shizenkan campus. The event marked the culmination of a rigorous and transformative 2-year MBA journey for the graduates, who were honored in the presence of esteemed guests, faculty, family, and friends.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome and an overview of the MBA program’s journey by Dr. Tomo Noda, President and Chair of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Noda highlighted the topics and questions that were posed through the program, dedication, growth, reflecting on achievements and experiences of the graduates and the university’s commitment to nurturing future leaders.

The graduates were privileged to hear keynote speeches from two distinguished speakers: Ms. Jenifer Rogers (General Counsel of Asia, Asurion Japan Holdings G.K.) and Mr. Genichi Tamatsuka (President and CEO, Representative Director, LOTTE HOLDINGS CO., LTD.). 

Both speakers shared valuable insights and words of wisdom to inspire the graduates as they embark on their leadership journeys. In her speech, Ms. Rogers emphasized the importance of “AI” for today’s leaders, where “A” stands for “adaptability” and “I” for “integrity. And Mr. Tamatsuka offered his perspective on the necessary attitudes for leaders, such as focusing on a mission, always learning and having sensitivity to understand what is important and what is not, and building trust and respect. 

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of diplomas, where each graduate received their well-earned degree. Adding a unique touch to the celebration, the graduates also shared keywords that they had chosen to represent their aspirations and values as they step into the next phase of their leadership journey. These keywords, symbolizing their personal and professional values and goals, were a testament to their individual journeys and future ambitions.

The ceremony continued with heartfelt congratulatory messages from notable personalities, including Mr. Masaki Yamauchi (Executive Advisor, Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd.), Seiichi Kondo (Co-chair of the Shizenkan Center for Liberal Arts and Leadership), Shizenkan Vice President Dr. George Olcott, Ms. Sandra Wu (Chairperson and CEO, Kokusai Kogyo Co.,Ltd. and Board Member, UN Global Compact Board), and Mr. Kakutaro Kitashiro (Chairperson, ISL and Honorary Executive Advisor, IBM Japan). Each speaker conveyed their congratulatory remarks and words of encouragement, celebrating the graduates’ accomplishments and urging them to continue striving for excellence.

Speeches by student representatives, Mr. Katsutoshi Fujita and Ms. Ami Anzai, brought a personal touch to the event, as they shared their reflections on the past two years, the challenges they overcame, and the bonds they formed. Their speeches were filled with gratitude and hope, resonating deeply with their fellow graduates and attendees.

In a tradition that underscores the strong sense of community at Shizenkan University, a welcome speech was delivered by the 4th Cohort Alumni Secretariat, represented by Ms. Dora Tamari-Tutnjevic and Mr. Koji Hamane, formally welcoming the new graduates into the alumni network. This was followed by a commitment speech from the Class of 2024 Alumni Secretary Leaders, Mr. Taira Momiyama and Ms. Lucía Moreno Arrones Loriente, who pledged to uphold the values and spirit of Shizenkan as they join the ranks of its esteemed alumni.

The graduation ceremony was a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Class of 2024. As these new graduates set out to make their mark on the world, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values imparted by Shizenkan University, ready to lead and inspire in their respective fields.

Genichi Tamatsuka (President and CEO, Representative Director, LOTTE HOLDINGS CO., LTD.)

 Jenifer Rogers (General Counsel of Asia, Asurion Japan Holdings G.K.)

Dr. Tomo Noda, President and Chair of the Board of Trustees