On July 4, Tianjin University (TJU) held its 2025 Graduate Commencement and Degree Conferral Ceremony at the gymnasium of the Weijin Road Campus.
The ceremony marked a proud milestone for 4,695 graduate students of the Class of 2025 as they celebrated the culmination of their academic journeys, accompanied by the emotional melodies of farewell songs.
The ceremony was hosted by Professor Li Bin, Vice President of TJU. The event was attended by university leaders, academicians, heads of schools and colleges, members of the Degree Evaluation Committee, and faculty representatives, among others.
Before the formal proceedings, student representatives delivered a warm-up performance to celebrate the event.
After the performance, the ceremony opened with China’s national anthem. Wang Yanhui, Executive Dean of the Graduate School, announced the decision of the Degree Evaluation Committee to confer doctoral and master's degrees. A total of 723 students received doctoral degrees, while 3,972 were awarded master's degrees.
Feng Luyuan, a Grade 2020 doctoral student from the School of Precision Instrument and Optoelectronics Engineering, spoke as a graduate representative. He reflected on his nine-year journey at Tianjin University with the guidance of the University’s motto "seeking truth from facts", and teachings of Academician Ye Shenghua, as well as the unwavering support of his peers.
Zheng Dong, an alumnus of the Chemical Engineering program and current independent investor, delivered an inspiring address as a distinguished alumnus. He encouraged students to pursue their own path to success. He stated: “Your best direction is where your personality, expertise, and passion align.” He urged students to live a meaningful life with thoughtful action, and reset their mindset and let youthful brilliance shine.
Sun Youhai, Dean of the School of Law, shared reflections on life with the graduates. He encouraged them to take the earnest expectations of teachers and the “seeking truth from facts” spirit. He said: “The Crabapple flowers at your alma mater will always bloom for you.”
President Chai Liyuan said: “As a mentor, you are the first batch of graduates I’ve bid farewell to since I joined Tianjin University, and it is a moment I will cherish. As a friend, we share a common spiritual home: Tianjin University.” He encouraged the graduates to align their aspirations with the nation’s needs, to take root in society, to integrate technology with humanity, and to embrace gratitude and collaboration. This year also marks the 130th anniversary of Tianjin University. “Welcome all Tianjin University alumni to come back often,” President Chai concluded. “I look forward to hearing more good news from you.”
The ceremony ended with all graduates singing the university anthem together. Graduates then took turns on stage, receiving their degrees and having their tassels turned by university leaders and members of the Degree Evaluation Committee, marking the formal conferral of their academic accomplishments.
By: Sun Xiaofang