The 2024 University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI，JI hereafter) Commencement Ceremony took place at Jing Jing Auditorium of the SJTU Minhang campus on August 9. The ceremony, hosted by JI Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education Gang Zheng, was attended by Class of 2024 graduates, parents, faculty and staff members, as well as invited guests.
SJTU Vice President Weidong Liu congratulated Class of 2024 students for completing their studies. “Four years ago, you came to Shanghai Jiao Tong University from all over the world. Since then, you have experienced an extraordinary university life here. During these vibrant and invaluable years, we have witnessed your growth, engagement, and presence at various significant occasions. You have truly displayed the brilliance of your generation,” said the vice president who hoped that the students will remain open-minded, pursue their dreams, and keep their passion alive. “As you now prepare to embark on new journeys, whether continuing your studies at world-class universities or working in your respective fields, I encourage you to carry the legacy of being a member of SJTU and leave your mark on the world with your talent and dedication.”
UM President Santa Ono sent a congratulatory letter to the graduates attending the ceremony. In his letter, he emphasized that the graduation ceremony is not only a major milestone in each student’s personal growth but also a significant result of the deep friendship and long-term collaboration between the two universities across the Pacific Ocean. “I hope you will cherish the deep friendship between JI, SJTU, and UM. This friendship is a valuable asset on your path of growth and a strong support in your future journey,” said Ono.
In his speech titled “Dare to Make a Difference,” JI Dean Chien-Pin Chen extended his congratulations and expressed his expectations for the students as they reached the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and resilience. “Your time at the Joint Institute has equipped you with knowledge, skills, and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. As you move forward, embrace the unknown with confidence and determination. Dare to do things differently and to be someone different from both your past self and your peers,” said the dean. He also encouraged the graduates to challenge themselves to make a difference in the world. “The world you are entering is filled with unprecedented challenges and opportunities. From climate change to technological advancements, from social justice to global health, there are countless arenas where your talents and passions can make a significant impact. As a JI graduate, dare to step into these arenas, dare to be bold in your pursuits, and dare to make a difference.”
Lionel M. Ni, founding president of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), delivered a speech as a guest speaker. He described the graduation ceremony not only as a celebratory event but also as a historic milestone. Over the past century, UM and SJTU have built a strong partnership and deep friendship. As a key outcome of this collaboration, JI has produced over 4,000 distinguished alumni since its founding, highlighting the success of Sino-American educational cooperation. Ni also shared a heartfelt wish for the free flow of knowledge and wisdom, harmony and happiness among people, and peace and stability in the world. “We share a dream—a dream of a better world through technological and educational innovation on an international platform for cooperation,” he said.
Kangquan Niu, speaking on behalf of the graduates’ parents, conveyed congratulations, gratitude, and best wishes. He said that choosing to study at JI amid global uncertainties was a special and significant decision. The students not only received comprehensive academic training but also developed crucial skills in cross-cultural communication and collaboration, broadening their international perspective. JI’s inclusive and open environment fostered a spirit of self-exploration and willingness to embrace new experiences. Niu urged the graduates to value the rich experiences they have gained over the past four years, confront future challenges with bravery, and chart their own paths in life.
Haojia Sun, the valedictorian for the Class of 2024, expressed pride and gratitude for the extraordinary experiences, rapid growth, and significant achievements of her fellow graduates over the past four years. “JI offers a unique international platform, providing countless opportunities to realize our potential. What made this place truly special were the global environment, rich cultural atmosphere, and diverse student body. The emphasis on interdisciplinary knowledge and cross-cultural collaboration broadened our perspectives and fostered an open mind,” she said. “As we stand here today, ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives, let us remember the lessons we’ve learned and the friendships we’ve forged. We are prepared to face the future with confidence, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference. The future is ours to shape.”
In his speech representing the international students, Mansur Ayazbayev from Kazakhstan expressed gratitude to JI for shaping students into resilient, efficient, and creative thinkers capable of tackling extraordinary challenges. “JI provided us with invaluable experiences through global programs and collaborations with people from diverse backgrounds and continents. I am grateful for every life story I have encountered and for the privilege of being part of some,” said Ayazbayev. “Let’s commit to making our communities, cities, countries, and the world a better place by using the skills and network we’ve built here at JI.”
Ten students receive appointment certificates as 2024 Class Directors for the new graduates.
To express their gratitude and farewell sentiments to the joint institute, the Class of 2024 representatives presented a carefully crafted gift, a hand-made wooden lamp sculpture of Long Bin Building by the graduates. Chien-Pin Chen and Chairman of the JI Council Ming Yang accepted the gift.
Degree awarding ceremony was held afterwards. The Class of 2024 graduates in personalized academical dresses had their tassels turned and received their degree certificates under the witness of hundreds of onsite audiences.
