Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences bid farewell to its graduates with a vibrant commencement ceremony for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The ceremony, held at the OMU Life Center, was attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Prof. Dr. Ebül Muhsin Doğan, Vice Dean Dr. Özgür Özaydın, academic staff, graduating students, and their families.

Vice Rector Kurnaz: “The greatness of a university is reflected in the achievements of its graduates”

Following a moment of silence and the Turkish National Anthem, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz congratulated the graduates and stated:

“You have had the opportunity to study at one of Türkiye’s leading universities. For four years, you received education from our experienced academic staff, and now it is time to take the next step in your lives. The most important factor that distinguishes universities and adds value to them is their graduates. The greatness of a university is reflected in the achievements of its graduates. You should always remember that Ondokuz Mayıs University is a large family with more than fifty years of academic heritage. I am confident that the education and competencies you have gained here will enable you to contribute both to our country and to our university. I wish you every success in the next chapter of your lives.”

Dean Doğan: “Never forget that success is in love with effort”

Dean Prof. Dr. Ebül Muhsin Doğan emphasized that graduation marks not an ending but the beginning of a new journey:

“Dear students and respected families, today we are celebrating one of the most meaningful days of your lives after years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. I wholeheartedly congratulate you on this achievement. However, remember that learning does not end with graduation. Continue to develop yourselves, acquire new knowledge, and embrace lifelong learning. Always maintain your commitment to becoming individuals who contribute to our country, our society, and humanity. Never forget that success is in love with effort. Every achievement you accomplish as members of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences family will also be a source of pride for us.”

Valedictorian Zorlu: “The guidance of our professors will continue to illuminate our professional lives”

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Faculty Valedictorian and Political Science and Public Administration graduate Hanife Sümeyye Zorlu reflected on the significance of their university years:

“Today, we have reached the end of a university journey during which we worked hard, nurtured our dreams, and created countless memories. On this meaningful day, I sincerely congratulate all my fellow graduates who share the same excitement and pride. I would like to thank our families, who have always supported us with their love, sacrifices, and encouragement. I also extend my gratitude to our esteemed professors, who not only imparted knowledge but also taught us how to think critically, question, and view life from different perspectives. Their guidance and contributions will continue to illuminate our paths throughout our professional lives.”

Following the speeches, Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Çetin Kurnaz presented certificates of achievement to faculty valedictorian Hanife Sümeyye Zorlu, salutatorian Bahar Cebeci, and third-ranked graduate Zehra Çakmak.

The graduation ceremony concluded with students reciting the graduation oath and celebrating by tossing their caps into the air.