Degree Conferred Ceremony of the Faculty of Arts
07/14/2026On 26 June 2026, the Faculty of Arts’ traditional graduation ceremony took place at the Neubaukirche. Around 500 guests bid farewell to the 120 registered graduates of the 2025/26 cohort.
In his welcoming address, Dean Professor Thomas Baier paid tribute to the graduates, describing them as ambassadors and the true measure of the university’s success.
In his keynote address, alumnus Dr Julien Bobineau looked back on his graduation from Würzburg 14 years ago. Under the title ‘Something to do with the humanities… …which isn’t such a bad thing in the age of AI”, he explained why core humanities skills such as the analysis of argumentation, tolerance of ambiguity, the ability to understand and contextualise, communication skills and creativity are irreplaceable and are growing in importance. He encouraged the graduates to embark on this new chapter of their lives with enthusiasm, a critical mind and curiosity.
In her welcome address, entitled “Well equipped to shape the world sustainably”, the faculty’s sustainability officer, Professor Michaele Fenske, outlined the broad understanding of sustainability that is practised and taught at the university. She emphasised that the graduates have acquired skills that will enable social transformation.
The presentation of certificates as the highlight
Julia Fischer and Vera Knott were honoured with the Social Engagement Award for their commitment as student representatives, particularly in relation to providing free menstrual products. Julien Bobineau, Secretary of the Alumni Association, presented the award. The two student representatives then expressed their thanks and addressed the audience.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the alumni certificates to the graduates by members of the faculty management. Special honours were awarded to the top Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates from each subject group.
The Ossia Saxophone Quartet from the University of Music provided a lively musical accompaniment to the ceremony. Haiyue Chen (soprano saxophone), Sonja Besler (alto saxophone), Yi-Hsuan Chiu (tenor saxophone) and Finn Stammler (baritone saxophone) were bid farewell by Dean Thomas Baier, who described them as a “sensational band”.
The Faculty of Arts wishes all graduates every success in their future academic and professional careers!
The graduation ceremony for the class of 2026/27 will take place on 25 June 2027.
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