The American University of Cyprus (AUCY) successfully held its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on July 10, 2026, at its campus in Larnaca, under the auspices of the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr. Kostas Fytiris. The event was honored by the presence of the members of the AUCY Board of Directors, Chairman Dr. Tarek Sadek, President Mr. Christos Karas, Rector Dr. Marc-Antoine Zabbal, Mr. Joe Ibrahim, and Mr. Farid Haikal. The ceremony was also attended by distinguished representatives of the Church, members of the House of Representatives, representatives of the Cyprus Police and the Fire Service, prominent business leaders, members of the academic staff, alumni, families, and a host of distinguished guests from all over Cyprus.

The event highlighted the university’s continued growth, its ever-expanding international community, and its steadfast commitment to academic excellence.

The ceremony began with the official entrance of the Class of 2026, followed by the academic procession of the Rector’s Office, marking the beginning of one of the most significant moments in the students’ academic journey. This was followed by the playing of the National Anthem of the Republic of Cyprus, lending the event the respect and solemnity it deserved.

The ceremony included an inspiring speech by the valedictorian (Valedictorian), Ms. Daria Boiarinova, who spoke about the graduates’ shared journey, the friendships they had formed, the challenges they had overcome, and the new opportunities that lay ahead of them.

“If there is one thing these years at AUCY have taught me, it is this: nothing we are celebrating tonight came from ‘tomorrow.’ Every achievement began on the day we decided to take that first step. This is also my wish for all of us, the Class of 2026: that we live in a way that lives up to our potential, so that every day we find within ourselves the strength to move forward and create.”

Next, the Chairman of the AUCY Board of Trustees, Mr. Christos Karas, spoke about the university’s significant growth and reiterated AUCY’s vision of shaping graduates who will become leaders and innovators with a positive impact on society.

“In a few minutes, you will receive your degree. But this degree is not your final destination; it is your passport. What will shape your future is not only what you have learned here, but how you apply that knowledge, your integrity, your sense of responsibility, and your willingness to continue learning throughout your life.”

Following Mr. Christos Kara’s speech, attendees watched a specially produced video showcasing the unique journey of the American University of Cyprus. The video chronicled the university’s journey from the conception of the idea in 2016 to its evolution into a dynamic international university in 2026. Through its most significant milestones, successes, and progress over the past decade, the video highlighted AUCY’s steadfast commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Next, AUCY’s Rector, Dr. Marc-Antoine Zabbal, addressed the graduates, urging them to embrace every opportunity with confidence and determination.

In his speech, he emphasized:
“Today is not the end of your journey, but the beginning of a new chapter. The knowledge you have acquired, the friendships you’ve formed, and the values you’ve embraced will stay with you throughout your lives. Believe in yourselves, keep learning, and never stop pursuing your dreams.”

Following the Rector’s speech, the audience witnessed one of the most moving moments of the evening through a surprise video featuring personal messages from the parents of each graduate. Filled with love, pride, encouragement, and gratitude, the tribute celebrated the graduates’ achievements while acknowledging the enduring support and sacrifices of their families throughout their academic journey. This deeply moving presentation touched everyone in attendance, evoking strong emotions among graduates, parents, faculty members, and guests, creating an unforgettable moment that perfectly captured the evening’s spirit of love, perseverance, and success.

Next, the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr. Kostas Fytiris, congratulated the graduates on reaching this important milestone and emphasized the importance of education, responsibility, and leadership in shaping a stronger future for Cyprus.

“The degree you are receiving today opens new paths. Your character will determine how far you go. Society needs not only capable scientists and professionals; it needs people to whom it can entrust the future.”

One of the most moving moments of the ceremony was the awarding of an honorary degree in memory of Mrs. Maria Aristotelous, in recognition of her determination, her dedication, and her academic career. Her mother accepted the honorary degree on behalf of the family, noting that a person’s pursuit of knowledge and legacy continue to inspire even beyond the span of their life.

Mr. Farid Haikal stated:
“Although she is no longer with us, her spirit and legacy continue to inspire us. Today, we have the profound honor of awarding an Honorary Degree to her parents, in recognition of Maria’s life, her strength of spirit, and the lasting impact she had on our community.»

The diplomas were presented by Mr. Farid Haikal, Director of the AUCY Student Registry Office, together with the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr. Kostas Fitiris, the President of AUCY, Dr. Marc-Antoine Zabbal, Vice President Professor Mario Katsioloudis, and the Deans of the university’s schools: Professor Ioannis Michaloudis, Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, Professor Dario Pontiggio; Dean of the School of Business Administration and Economics; and Professor Markos Markou, Dean of the School of Science and Technology, officially welcoming the graduates into the international AUCY alumni family.

As each graduate took the stage to receive their degree, their families and friends proudly celebrated the years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work, creating one of the most memorable moments of the evening.

The formal ceremony concluded with the official proclamation of the Class of 2026 by the President of AUCY, Dr. Marc-Antoine Zabbal, followed by a spectacular fireworks display that celebrated the graduates’ achievements and marked the beginning of the next chapter in their lives.

After the ceremony concluded, graduates, families, faculty members, and guests continued the celebration at an energetic graduation party featuring Giorgos Vassiliou, whose exceptional performance created an unforgettable atmosphere and served as the perfect finale to a truly unique evening.

As AUCY continues on its path of growth and innovation, it remains committed to providing world-class education, preparing its students to lead with integrity, creativity, and vision. Each new graduating class further strengthens the university’s vision of establishing itself as one of the leading institutions of higher education in the wider region.

Guided by its vision, “The Art of Shaping the Future,” the American University of Cyprus continues to empower its students with the knowledge, skills, and international perspective needed to shape a better tomorrow.