June 3, 2009. -- Someone rightly said that “An overnight success takes about ten years.” However, in the 15th year of its anniversary, CEIBS got the student lounge named “Meridian,” on the initiative of MBA 2008 Student Committee. Student Committee has been persistent in pursuing the dream to create an amazing place on campus which could facilitate the fusion of cultures and minds. Finally, D-day came on 3rd of June 2009 when the lounge was formally opened to all students. The MERIDIAN Lounge is “for the students, by the students and of the students.” 

The Opening Ceremony was kicked off by SC President Devon Nixon, who presented the thoughts behind selection of word “Meridian” in a very eloquent manner. The term means “network of all connection,” “all important topics between heaven and earth” and most importantly the “latitude and longitude” which represents a place of gathering for people from around the world. He elaborated on how individuals in the SC have contributed to this accomplishment, and he highlighted the key challenges faced and actions taken to achieve our goal.

The opening witnessed key persons such as the chief designer of the Lounge Mr Xiao Bo, Dean Prof Rolf D. Cremer, Co-Dean Prof Zhang Weijiong, MBA Operations Director Ms Yvonne Li, MBA Office Representative Ms Sunna Lu as well as MBA students who joined soon after finishing the Chinese Economy final exam. All staffs, in general, and Dean and Co-Dean, in particular, have been very supportive in conceptualising the project since inception and provided ample guidance along the way.

Co-Dean Prof Zhang Weijiong cut the red ribbon and opened the lounge to all. The opening was celebrated with ‘sparkling wine” and snacks. Students were impressed by the rich ambience of the lounge which has a bar counter, stylish sitting arrangements, video game, and snooker table, to name a few.

The opening of the Meridian Lounge marks the beginning of a new era which is symbolic of the role CEIBS plays providing a platform for students to facilitate cultural and intellectual amalgamation. It also promises to expand the breadth of eatables for students which will be served through the private vendor. Certainly, the Meridian Lounge offers CEIBS students and the greater CEIBS community with another set of wings to fly.

----  Jitesh Jaipuriyar (MBA 2008)