Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Architecture celebrated the graduation of 94 students at its 2025–2026 Academic Year Graduation Ceremony.

The ceremony, held at the Atatürk Congress and Culture Center, was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture Prof. Dr. Mehmet Çetin, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts Prof. Dr. Ali Seylan, Director of Samsun Vocational School Prof. Dr. Kaya Tuncer Çağlayan, department chairs, academic staff, graduating students, and their families.

Vice Rector Sumer: “As the OMU family, we are proud of you”

Following a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşe Pınar Sumer congratulated the graduates and said:

“Today, we are not only holding a graduation ceremony, but also sending off young architects and designers who will help shape the future of our country. The knowledge, skills, and experiences you have gained throughout your university years will serve as your most valuable guide. Architecture is not only about constructing buildings; it is about designing living spaces that combine aesthetics and functionality while adding value to people's lives. As the OMU family, we are proud of you and firmly believe that throughout your professional careers you will contribute to our country and humanity by following the guidance of science and upholding ethical values. We wish you every success in your future endeavors.”

Dean Çetin: “Graduation is the first step toward new beginnings”

Dean of the Faculty of Architecture Prof. Dr. Mehmet Çetin emphasized that graduation is the result of students’ dedication and perseverance:

“Today, we take pride in seeing our students successfully complete a long and demanding educational journey. Our graduates are entering a new chapter of their lives not only with professional knowledge and skills, but also with a strong sense of social responsibility. The words of the founder of our Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, ‘Science is the truest guide in life,’ will continue to illuminate your professional paths. I believe you will become individuals who think critically, question, create, and contribute value to society through the guidance of science. The diploma you receive today is not only a symbol of academic achievement, but also of your determination, hard work, and perseverance. Graduation is not an ending; it is the first step toward new beginnings. I congratulate you all and wish you continued success.”

Valedictorian Kırca: “We learned together, and we grew together”

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, valedictorian Cansu Kırca described university life as a journey of both academic and personal growth:

“We began university with great dreams and excitement. Along the way, there were moments when we faced challenges and felt exhausted, but we overcame every obstacle together by supporting one another. The guidance of our professors, the solidarity of our friends, and the unwavering support of our families played a significant role in our success today. Thanks to the educational opportunities provided by our Republic, we are proud to graduate as qualified professionals. I believe that with the knowledge and values we have gained here, we will build our own futures with confidence. May our paths be open and our futures bright.”

Following the speeches, certificates of achievement were presented to the graduates by faculty members.

The ceremony concluded with students celebrating their achievement by tossing their caps into the air.