PGDM Batch Commencement
PGDM 2026–28 Commencement
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon, welcomed its newest Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) cohort at its Commencement Ceremony on 1st July 2026. The diverse batch embarks on a transformative journey, with the event graced by Chief Guest Mr. Saurabh Sharma, Sales Director at Red Bull. The ceremony began with the Saraswati Vandana and traditional lamp-lighting, symbolizing enlightenment.
Welcome Address by Dr. Poornima Gupta, Program Director – PGDM
Dr. Poornima Gupta warmly welcomed the new PGDM cohort, encouraging them to view the year ahead as a transformative journey. She urged students to embrace uncertainty, overcome the fear of making mistakes, and nurture a constant sense of curiosity. Highlighting the pillars of effective learning, she spoke about the importance of discipline, inclusivity, and collaboration — stressing the value of starting early and staying consistent, rather than waiting for panic to drive action.
Dr. Poornima Gupta, Program Director - PGDM
Naming the Batch: PGDM Class of 2028 – "The Catalyst"
Upholding the institute's tradition, Dr. Jones Mathew, Principal & Head of Institution, formally named the incoming class "The Catalyst" — a title reflecting the cohort's anticipated ability to transform ideas, learning, and experience into meaningful impact across industries.
Keynote Address by the Chief Guest
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Saurabh Sharma, Sales Director at Red Bull, offered the incoming cohort valuable insights drawn from his corporate journey. He emphasized:
- The importance of resilience and staying energized through long, demanding careers.
- Ownership of one's learning and active engagement both inside and outside the classroom.
- A consumer-first mindset grounded in empathy for the market one serves.
- The pursuit of excellence through consistent, deliberate practice.
- The pursuit of excellence through consistent, deliberate practice.
He closed by reminding the cohort that the two years ahead are a rare, deliberate pause from their careers — one that repays every bit of effort invested in it.
Mr. Saurabh Sharma, Sales Director at Red Bull
Address by the COO
In his address, Mr. Gautam Lakhamraju, described the PGDM program as a blank canvas — an opportunity for students to paint their own unique journey. He encouraged them to:
- Be intentional and disciplined in their efforts.
- Translate insights into meaningful action.
- Take full responsibility for outcomes, especially in placements and career transitions.
- View the PGDM as an opportunity for reinvention and growth.
Mr. Gautam Lakhamraju, Chief Operating Officer
Vote of Thanks
The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Smita Mazumdar, followed by a solemn recitation of the National Anthem, symbolizing unity and shared purpose. The commencement ceremony ended with a group photograph of the batch with the faculty.
Dr. Smita Mazumdar, Program Director - PGDM
Yoga and Mindfulness with Prof. S.K. Palhan
The cohort participated in "Yoga for the Triple Bottom Line: Body, Mind & Soul," a guided early-morning session on yoga and mindfulness led by Prof. S.K. Palhan at the Amphitheatre. The session also introduced students to the Karma Yoga Program, a signature Great Lakes initiative promoting community leadership and social responsibility through active engagement in nearby villages.
Industry Insights: Guiding Career Journeys
As part of the Commencement Program, the new PGDM cohort had the privilege of engaging with industry leaders across key verticals. These sessions offered pragmatic insights into the world of business, helping students envision career pathways and prepare for industry transitions.
Leading People Through Change
Mr. Sanjay Chaturvedi spoke on the evolving role of HR leadership in shaping organizational culture, encouraging students to see people strategy as central — not peripheral — to business performance.
— By Sanjay Chaturvedi, CHRO, Valvoline Cummins
Building a Career in Consulting
Mr. Deepak Singh shared perspectives on what it takes to thrive in consulting and professional services, emphasizing adaptability, client trust, and the discipline of structured problem-solving.
— By Deepak Singh, CHRO, Protiviti India
Acing Case Competitions
Ms. Alekhya Chakrabarty walked students through frameworks for structured thinking under pressure, sharing practical tips on how to stand out in case competitions and campus challenges.
— By Alekhya Chakrabarty, Senior VP – Marketing, Info Edge India Ltd.
Winning in Sales & Go-to-Market
Mr. Arpit Pal Singh spoke about building a career in sales and go-to-market strategy, highlighting how understanding distribution and the customer front line shapes stronger business leaders.
— By Arpit Pal Singh, National GTM Head, Adani Wilmar Ltd.
Celebrating Diversity: Talent Evening
The induction program concluded with a Talent Evening, coordinated by Dr. Swapnil Sahoo, showcasing a wide range of student performances — music, dance, and stage acts — encouraging fellowship and celebrating the diverse backgrounds and talents of The Alchemists.
