Opening Ceremony at UPF-BSM: Kicking Off the 2024-2025 Academic Year

UPF Barcelona School of Management has celebrated theOpening Ceremony for the new 2024-2025 academic year, welcoming more than 1,500 students from 66 nationalities. This marks the beginning of a transformative journey for students who are joining a diverse and vibrant community, where 50% are international students, primarily from Latin America and Europe.

The event was held in the UPF-BSM auditorium and the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation as faculty, students, and special guests came together for this significant occasion.

Sandra Mestre, journalist and event host, highlighted, "This annual event is particularly special as we celebrate the start of a new academic journey. Each year, our student body becomes larger and more international."

José Manuel Martínez-Sierra, Director General of the UPF-BSM, welcomed students by acknowledging the presence of Rector Laia de Nadal, department directors, and partner institutions. He highlighted the institution's commitment to diversity, with a majority of women represented, emphasizing its dedication to its core values and wishing everyone success in the upcoming academic year as they become part of the UPF-BSM family.

Keynote speech by Núria Cabutí: A vision for the future

Núria Cabutí, CEO of Penguin Random House, emphasized the importance of collaboration between businesses and educational institutions, praising UPF-BSM for its diverse student body and academic disciplines. She urged students to recognize that the educational path they choose will significantly shape their future, stating, “Your education here will equip you with the skills needed to navigate and thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Drawing from her experience leading the digital transition at Penguin Random House, Cabutí stressed the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and having a clear mission. She concluded by encouraging students to embrace their roles as future leaders and innovators, working together to create a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.

Student Representatives: Voices of the future

Following Cabutí's, three student representatives took the stage to share their perspectives on the academic year and the challenges ahead.

Jorge J. Cetean, a student in the Master’s in Advocacy and Legal Practice, likened the legal profession to a boxer in constant battle, stressing resilience and the key role of UPF-BSM as a mentor in their journey. He emphasized learning from mistakes and staying passionate about the law despite inevitable obstacles.

Lucía López, a Master’s student in Public and Social Policies, emphasized the power of public policy to drive change. She highlighted the importance of critical thinking and collective responsibility in addressing today’s social challenges, reminding her peers that this year is not just about professional growth, but about making a real, positive impact on society.

Mara V. Mercado, from the MSc in Sustainability Management, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this important moment. She emphasized the pressing need for sustainable solutions and her words carried a clear message of responsibility and progress. She underscored the vital role students will play in building a more equitable and sustainable future.

Their words were a powerful reminder of the potential within the next generation of leaders, highlighting their resilience and determination to overcome challenges, while subtly conveying themes of equality and the drive to create a more just and inclusive future.

Closing remarks by Laia de Nadal: A commitment to students and global impact at UPF BSM

Laia de Nadal, Rector of Universitat Pompeu Fabra, welcomed the rectors, UPF-BSM staff, industry professionals, students and alumni, expressing her gratitude for Núria Cabutí's presence. She emphasized that students are the focus of the event and thanked them for choosing UPF-BSM, assuring them they will always be at the heart of the university's mission. With around 1,500 students this year, more than half being international, she highlighted the institution's global spirit and commitment to excellence.

Dr. de Nadal underscored UPF-BSM’s goal of developing leaders capable of creating positive social impact, emphasizing the importance of humanism, culture, and values in their education. She reassured students that they would be the catalysts for change and highlighted the role of the Alumni community in supporting their journeys. “I hereby declare the 2024-2025 academic year officially open. Thank you and good luck!”