Webster Geneva’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony

On May 10, 2025, Webster Geneva held its annual commencement ceremony at the Intercontinental Geneva. With more than 500 guests in attendance, along with faculty and staff, the event was a heartfelt tribute to the achievements, resilience and global spirit of this year's graduates.

The ceremony began with an uplifting and thoughtful welcome from Dr. Ryan Guffey, Executive Vice President of Webster International. Dr. Guffey reflected on the university's mission to foster a global civil society and academic excellence, and acknowledged the diverse journeys that brought students to the occasion.

This year’s commencement address was delivered by Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. Known for his leadership in the world of luxury automotive innovation, Winkelmann shared insights on excellence, purpose and innovation. His powerful message emphasized the importance of perseverance and vision in navigating the future.

Adding a personal and motivating perspective, Omar Danial, President of Finial Capital and a proud Webster alumnus, addressed the audience on behalf of the alumni community. He highlighted the lifelong value of a Webster education and the doors it opens globally.

Celebrating Outstanding Achievements

Among the highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of student awards to honor those who demonstrated exceptional academic and community contributions.

Outstanding Undergraduate Student: Angelina Tkachenko

Graduating with a degree in International Relations, a certificate in International Human Rights and a minor in Computer Science, Angelina Tkachenko exemplified academic distinction by earning a place on the Dean's List from 2022 to 2025. She was also selected for the Scholars’ Program. Her leadership as Vice President of the Webster Humanitarian Association and service roles across campus have made a lasting impact. Hailing from Ukraine, her passion for humanitarian causes is both personal and inspiring.

Outstanding Graduate Student: Mhica Salvo

Mhica Salvo’s journey is one of true resilience. Born in the Philippines and raised across Costa Rica, Monaco and Canada, Salvo brings a multicultural lens to her work. After earning a BA in Psychology, she returned to Webster Geneva for a Master of Arts in Counseling with a Community Counseling emphasis. During her studies, she completed multiple internships and bravely overcame cancer while pursuing her degree. Now in remission, she is poised to continue her work in Switzerland, bringing empathy and strength to her counselling practice.

Lamborghini Excellence Award: Jessie Baxter

Presented in collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini, this award recognizes a student who has demonstrated both academic achievement and service to the Webster community. This award was presented to Jessie Baxter, who recently completed her Scholars thesis and earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations. Baxter has served as president of the IR Club, contributed to major academic conferences and interned at ACE & Company. She was also honored for her work at the Model United Nations. She will begin a master’s degree at Sciences Po in Paris this fall. The award included a miniature Lamborghini Revuelto, symbolizing innovation and excellence.

Garden Celebration

Following the ceremony, nearly 400 guests gathered at the Webster Geneva campus for a festive garden party styled as a boho chic al fresco cocktail event. With live music energizing the atmosphere, the celebration offered an unforgettable mix of culinary, artistic and interactive experiences.

The entire event was a joyful celebration of global community, achievement and the bright futures ahead of Webster’s newest alumni.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!