A call for optimism
IMD President David Bach set the tone with an upbeat address at the celebratory EMBA graduation, arguing that in an age of AI and geopolitical tensions, one of the most vital characteristics for leaders is optimism.
“Optimism should not be naiveté or blind faith,” said Bach, Nestlé Professor of Strategy and Political Economy. “What we need is what researchers call “realistic optimism”, a mindset that combines “clear-eyed realism about today with a steadfast belief in a better tomorrow.”
He reminded graduates that optimism is not just a personal trait but a force that can inspire teams and fuel resilience.
“Years from now, when you come back for reunions in 5, 10, 15 or 25 years, we will take pride — together — in what you will have achieved, individually and collectively,” he said. “I know that you will know then that your ability to remain optimistic, and to spread optimism, will have played a major role.”
Embrace all your humanity
Keynote speaker Marion Fogli, Deputy CEO at Alpian Bank, followed with a reflection on the power of diverse experiences and perspectives. She stressed that adaptability and diversity are not just personal assets, but essential for creativity, innovation, and resilience in uncertain times.
“IMD gave you the tools. Your multiple hats give you the unique perspective. Your network gives you the opportunities,” she said, speaking nearly a decade after her own graduation. “Never forget that audacity is not the absence of fear – it’s the ability to act despite fear, with all our hats, all our complexity, all our humanity.”
Be present
Dean of the Executive MBA Professor Vanina Farber, focused her remarks on “presence” as a guiding principle. Quoting Oscar Wilde and The Rolling Stones, she urged graduates to bring awareness, pride, and authenticity into their work and relationships.
“Presence in your work — not just getting it done but taking pride. Presence as the weight of your own influence on the group dynamics,” said Farber, the IMD elea Chair on Social Innovation. “Presence as standing up for each other, and sometimes for a cause larger than ourselves.”
She encouraged the graduating class to stay authentic and grounded in self-reflection, and to engage genuinely with others through real community, not performative networking.
“Step forward, visible, with your voice and your skills. You have a role to play — know, that you’ll find me there with you, at your side.”
Lead with others in mind
The two “EMBAssadors” for the cohort, who named themselves the “Transformers” ended the evening’s speeches with inspirational calls to lead with positive intent for themselves and their communities.
“As the euphoria of graduation fades, what remains is the duty. This degree does not grant us certainty — it asks us to remain curious, humble, and courageous,” said Shabnam Ebrahimi, Director Operational Excellence Novartis Health Care.
“We commit to not only measure success by financial return, but by the positive impact we leave on people and society. To seek opportunities not just for ourselves, but for the communities we touch.”
Ahmed Riad Ismail, Senior Director, Strategy and Industry Development Huawei Services, added the class saw transformation in three dimensions: in the world, within themselves, and in the change they must lead.
“We promise that the transformation and impact we lived here will not stay here. We will carry it forward — into our companies, into our families, into our communities.”
