August 26, 2024. Shanghai – CEIBS Shanghai Campus was abuzz with excitement as it recently welcomed the MBA Class of 2026 for their programme’s Opening Ceremony. The campus corridors echoed with anticipation as a diverse group of professionals from around the world gathered to begin a transformative journey.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship and incoming Associate Dean and Director of CEIBS MBA Programme Daniel Chng. He set the tone for the event, introducing the distinguished guests and expressing enthusiasm for the energy the new cohort brings to campus.

CEIBS MBA Class of 2026 

In keeping with tradition, CEIBS President Wang Hong and CEIBS President (European) Dominique Turpin shared their insights and expectations for the incoming class. 

President Wang emphasised the school’s unique identity, stating: “Among numerous business schools, CEIBS stands out with its distinctive international characteristics, endowing us with formidable strength, profound wisdom, and a distinctive brand identity. Our full-time professorial team, hailing from all corners of the globe, walks alongside our students, driving them forward on the path of education and fulfilling  a vision of mutual growth through teaching and learning.” 

 CEIBS President Wang Hong offers her opening remarks during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

Professor Turpin followed with an inspirational address, stating, "You don't make great captains in calm seas. You make great captains in rough seas. So, expect that we will stretch you: because that’s part of the journey. " 

CEIBS President (European) Dominique Turpin shares his remarks during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

Representing CEIBS faculty, Professor of International Business and Strategy Shameen Prashantham delivered a compelling speech, noting, "Successful MBA journeys start for the right reasons. It’s not just about gaining knowledge, but about taking advantage of the opportunities the CEIBS platform provides. Be proactive, stay focused, and make the most of this transformative experience."  

CEIBS Professor of International Business and Strategy delivers a speech during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

Continuing a CEIBS tradition, a student from the previous class, Martin McLaughlin from MBA 2025, offered valuable advice to the new candidates. He shared, "Over the past year, my life has transformed in remarkable ways. I started a business, got married, and am about to welcome a child into the world. These experiences, coupled with the connections I’ve made here, have been invaluable. The friendships and networks you build here will serve you well for years to come." 

MBA 2025’s Martin McLaughlin shares his reflections with newly enrolled students during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

The Class of 2026 was represented by Kelly Xie, who expressed her excitement for the journey ahead: "I chose CEIBS for its focus on 'China Depth,' which aligns with my career aspirations. Each of us comes from a unique background, and while we're from different fields, we're all here to grow and improve ourselves. The MBA journey at CEIBS may be challenging, but I look forward to facing it alongside my classmates, cherishing our friendships, and expanding our knowledge." 

MBA Class of 2026 student representative Kelly Xie shares her hopes and expectations during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

MBA Programme Administration Director Michelle Zhu provided closing remarks, welcoming the Class of 2026 and highlighting the unique qualities of the incoming cohort, stating: "You already embody the spirit of China Depth and Global Breadth. As your MBA journey officially starts, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, reach out to those unfamiliar to you, and build meaningful connections with openness. Your classmates will be your most valuable assets, and together, you will leave a lasting legacy in the CEIBS community." 

CEIBS Administration Director of the MBA Programme Michelle Zhu talks during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

The ceremony concluded with an inspiring address from Prof. Chng who said: "CEIBS is now your home, and its legacy will become your legacy. Let this be the place where you discover what you truly want to do and who you want to become. The world is waiting for you, and I am confident that you will leave here ready to make a profound and positive impact." 

CEIBS MBA Incoming Associate Dean and Programme Director and Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship Daniel Chng gives some final remarks during the MBA Class of 2026 Opening Ceremony 

As the ceremony ended, the MBA Class of 2026 stood poised for an exciting new chapter in their lives, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead at CEIBS.