Convocation 2015 – Of Smiles, Laughter and Nostalgia

July 15, 2015 | Posted by Great Lakes << back to blog

The 11^th Annual Convocation had the Convention Center of the Chennai Trade Center buzzing with emotions – there was the excitement and energy that is the hallmark of the Great Lakes community, the eagerness to witness the charisma of Mr. Ratan Tata, the happiness to meet old friends and classmates again, and the nostalgia of students having to say goodbye.

The stage was all set, the students, in their impeccable black robes were seated, and the dignitaries and chief guests – Mr. Ratan Tata and Mr. Faizal E. Kottikolon were received. Founder and Dean Dr. Bala V Balachandran opened the ceremony with his warm welcoming words to the students, faculty members and guests. The wait was finally over for the people to hold themselves back in amazement as they saw one of the most successful business legends, Mr. Ratan Tata delivering the Convocation address. A man with a rare of combination of grandeur and humility, Mr. Tata took the time to share his knowledge and insights about business today. “Young start-ups in e-commerce and e-retailing are going to change Indian scene of retailing and marketing”, he said. “Look at your life as a life that can make a difference” was his advice to the newly graduated batch. Post his speech, three meritorious students from the batch of 2015 were awarded with gold medals by Mr. Tata himself.

The dignitaries on the stage giving a warm welcome to the Chief Guests, Dr.Ratan Tata, Chairman of Tata Trusts and Mr.Faisal Kottikollon, Founder & Chairman of KEF Holdings, Dubai.

Gold medals being awarded to the academic toppers

Distinguished chief guest Mr. Kotticolon, Founder and Chairman of KEF Holdings, Dubai and an alumnus of Great Lakes inspired and motivated the young graduates to follow their dreams and work towards what they truly wanted.

Distinguished chief guest, Mr Faizal, adressing the graduands of 2015.

The event also saw the launch of the book titled “Living Legends, Learning Lessons” which has been co-authored by Dr. Bala V Balachandran and alumna Ms. Kavipriya, the founder of Adding Smiles and an alumna of the institute. A press conference was also held to mark the occasion wherein Dr. Bala, Mr. Tata and Ms. Kavipriya participated.

Launch of the book ‘Living Legends, Learning Lessons’, authored by Dr.Bala.V.Balachandran

Press Meet

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