Long gone were the fears of the unknown that came with their first semester of early morning roll call in Marché, the struggles of becoming independent individuals, and the challenges of undertaking their first internships. On this day, those seemingly small details of the past were, in retrospect, crucial to their development as ambitious professionals who are ready to tackle the future with confidence and determination. The short walk down the aisle to receive their diplomas could only be seen as a symbol to that long road they travelled to get here. It was indeed a long road, but as Les Roches Marbella’s CEO. Dr. Gozalo, said in her commencement speech, “you did it and you should be very proud.”
They came to Les Roches Marbella from 36 countries around the world and although their backgrounds were as diverse as the countries they represent, they all shared one common goal – to become successful international hospitality professionals. Along the way, they formed lasting bonds with one another, they made friendships that will last a lifetime, and they found a purpose that will guide them in whatever direction they choose to take in their lives. These professionals are what embody the “Les Roches Way of Life” and we are very proud to have been able to share these years with them. Congratulations to all graduates, this is your moment to shine!
The ceremony, held at Hotel Puente Romano, featured a number of distinguished guests who wished to encourage the achievements of this graduating class. Guest speakers included Ms. Angeles Muñoz (Mayor of Marbella), Mr. Jorge Manzur (General Manager of Hotel Mélia Banus), and Mr. Alan Diaz (Senior VP of Laureate International Universities). But most notable were the emotional words shared by Dr. Gozalo, CEO of Les Roches Marbella, Ms. Mª José Aparicio, Academic Director of Les Roches Marbella and the representatives of each graduating class: Pedro Toscano Rico (Hotel Management Diploma), Beatriz Estival (Postgraduate Diploma Hospitality Management), Joshua Hill (Postgraduate Diploma Golf Management), and Fiona Villa (BBA Hospitality).
Ms. Villa capped the moment with a speech that touched the hearts of the 500 family and friends attending the ceremony when she said, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I will learn. This really represents the school because Les Roches Marbella gives you more than books, uniforms and classes – they give you a way of life, an experience, discipline. We are Les Roches and we represent it everywhere we go.”
We invite you to take a moment to watch the video below for highlights of each of their speeches and more. You can also watch the complete ceremony in the second video as it was streamed live.
XXXIII Closing Ceremony – Highlights
XXXIII Closing Ceremony – Full Version
