During the ceremony, graduates heard an inspirational keynote speech from United Nations representative, Mr. Carlos Jimenez Renjifo (UNRIC) in addition to parting words of gratitude from Marbella City Hall’s Counselor of Culture & Education, Ms. Carmen Diaz.
On behalf of the BBA graduating class, Laurence Curtis and João Pedro Matos Gil Magalhães provided emotional closing speeches that recapped their four years of studies at Les Roches Marbella. These were preceded by the heartfelt words of Daria Todorova who represented the Postgraduate class in a speech that received standing ovations from her classmates.
The ceremony also included the presentation of three new awards dedicated to staff, faculty, and students who have exemplified the spirit of Les Roches Marbella and the international hospitality industry as a whole. Among the awardees was the former General Director of Les Roches Marbella, Dr. Maria Teresa Gozalo. Dr. Gozalo received the Hospitality Golden Key award in recognition of her 18 years of service to the school and her work to promote tourism on the Costa del Sol during a career that spans nearly three decades.
Additionally, two special staff members, Ms. Isabel Olea and Mr. Antonio Rueda, were honored with the Les Roches Marbella Mentor Award to highlight the devotion they gave to our students’ professional development for nearly 20 years. Both of these respected individuals are retiring and these awards highlighted their exceptional service towards the international success that Les Roches Marbella has achieved since its founding in 1995.
Finally, the Les Roches Marbella Way of Life Award was presented to the LRM Student Sustainability Club for their initiative to promote sustainable practices and community volunteerism among the student body. Receiving the award on behalf of the club were Ms. Margherita Tiso and Ms. Laurence Curtis.
Before presenting the amazing and emotional highlight video of the ceremony below, we wish to congratulate one more time the Les Roches Marbella spring 2014 graduating class. We wish you all the greatest success in this next, professional phase of your career development. Wherever you go and whatever you do, remember YOU are Les Roches Marbella! Be proud, stand tall, and Godspeed ahead!
Les Roches Marbella Closing Ceremony – June 6, 2014
