The Programme of the Ceremonial Conferment
School of Business Ceremonial Conferment
The School of Business conferment is a three-day celebration. The next conferment will take place on 21–23 May 2026. The programme will be updated on this page during autumn 2025 and spring 2026.
Thursday, 21 May 2026
On the first day of the conferment ceremony, all promovendi (alumni holding Master’s, Doctoral, or Honorary Doctorate degrees) will attend mandatory conferment rehearsals to practice the proceedings of the conferment act. This ensures that the act on Friday runs smoothly and according to plan. After the rehearsals, the Laurel Wreath Weaving event (³¢±ð³ó±¹Ã¤²Ô²õ¾±³Ù´ÇÂá²¹¾±²õ±ð³Ù), hosted by the parents of the Spirit of Mercury, will take place. During this event, the promovendi prepare the laurel leaves that will be presented to them during the conferment act. The evening also provides an opportunity to set the festive mood for the conferment while enjoying a buffet dinner.
Friday, 22 May 2026
The day of the conferment begins with the ceremony for the awarding of Master’s diplomas, followed by the central and most prestigious moment of the conferment – the Act of Conferment. In this ceremony, the promovendi are formally inducted as full members of the academic community. The Act of Conferment will take place in the Aalto University Töölö Hall. After the act, a ceremonial procession takes place, bringing the academic celebration out into the city. The procession proceeds to Temppeliaukio Church for the conferment service or, alternatively, a non-denominational event.
On the same evening, the Conferment Dinner takes place. This festive yet joyful occasion combines academic dignity with a celebratory atmosphere. Guests enjoy a multi-course meal, hear speeches, and raise toasts – the mood may even evoke that of student organization anniversary celebrations! In addition to the promovendi and their companions, invited guests also attend, some of whom have participated in the Act of Conferment earlier in the day.
Following the dinner, the evening continues with traditional academic dances accompanied by live orchestral music. The dance programme includes the Polonaise, Valse, Cicapo, Mignon, Pas de Quatre, and Lambeth Walk. After the formal dances, the floor opens for informal dancing before the evening continues with after-parties. Separate dance rehearsals are arranged in advance, so there is no need to worry if the steps are not yet mastered – everyone is welcome to join!
Saturday, 23 May 2026
On the final day of the conferment, everyone gathers one last time to celebrate together at the Gratistas Herring Luncheon. The atmosphere is light and cheerful – a perfect way to conclude the celebrations in good company, once again honoring the well-deserved achievements!