From the Corum to the Jardin des Plantes: the city moves to the rhythm of doctors
On June 16, 2025, Montpellier's Corum once again welcomed young doctors to celebrate the completion of their doctoral studies. It was a ceremony marked by emotion, pride, and community spirit, followed by a final procession to the Jardin des Plantes to bring this exceptional day to a close.
Before the scene, the reunion
At 2:30 p.m., the Corum began to fill with the 231 young graduates of 2024 who had come to collect their gowns and caps. Over coffee, former doctoral students, supervisors, and members of doctoral schools shared smiles, memories, and a few last-minute instructions.
It was a moment that was both simple and precious, reflecting the long and demanding journey that was coming to an end.
A meaningful ceremony
At 4 p.m. sharp, the doors of the Pasteur Auditorium opened to a warm audience. In the presence of University President Philippe Augé, Gilles Subra, Director of the Doctoral College, and the heads of the doctoral schools, the ceremony began with a tribute to the scientific, human, and civic commitment of young researchers.
The graduation ceremony was punctuated by speeches from the directors of the doctoral schools in attendance. It was a way of bringing science and culture together in a spirit of openness.
A colorful parade
At around 6:30 p.m., the traditional hat toss on the Corum forecourt kicked off the festive march. Behind the marching band, the graduates joined the procession along Rue Foch, Place de la Comédie, and then the Arc de Triomphe, to the applause of passersby and the proud gaze of their loved ones.
An evening under the stars
At the Jardin des Plantes, some 700 guests were welcomed for a convivial evening combining a buffet, discussions, and discoveries. An exhibition featuring photographic portraits and personal stories offered an immersion into the diversity of research topics pursued by the class of 2024. This year's installation was created by photographer Gabriel Fradin.
Closing a cycle, opening a world
The 2025 ceremony will remain a moment of transition: that of a generation of young researchers ready to put their expertise at the service of society. It is a wonderful way to remind us that while the end of a PhD marks an achievement, it is above all the starting point for future commitments.
Watch the 2025 doctoral graduation ceremony: