From the Corum to the Jardin des Plantes: The City Moves to the Rhythm of the Doctors
On June 16, 2025, the Corum in Montpellier once again welcomed the new doctoral graduates to celebrate the completion of their doctoral studies. The ceremony was marked by emotion, pride, and a sense of community, followed by a final procession to the Jardin des Plantes to bring this exceptional day to a close.
Before the performance, the reunion
Starting at 2:30 p.m., the Corum began to fill with the 231 graduates of the class of 2024 who had come to pick up their gowns and caps. Over coffee, former doctoral students, advisors, and members of the doctoral schools shared smiles, memories, and a few last-minute tips.
It was a moment that was both simple and precious, reflecting the long and demanding journey that is now coming to an end.
A meaningful ceremony
At exactly 4:00 p.m., the doors of the Pasteur Auditorium opened to a warm and welcoming audience. In the presence of Philippe Augé, president of the university; Gilles Subra, director of the Doctoral College; and the heads of the doctoral schools, the ceremony began with a tribute to the young researchers’ commitment to science, humanity, and civic engagement.
The graduation ceremonies were punctuated by remarks from the directors of the participating doctoral schools. This served as a way to foster dialogue between science and culture, in a spirit of openness.
A colorful parade
Around 6:30 p.m., the traditional hat-tossing ceremony on the Corum plaza kicked off the festive procession. Following the marching band, the graduates marched in a procession down Rue Foch, through Place de la Comédie, and on to the Arc de Triomphe, amid the applause of passersby and the proud gazes of their loved ones.
An Evening Under the Stars
At the Jardin des Plantes, some 700 guests were welcomed to a convivial evening featuring a buffet, conversations, and new discoveries. An exhibition featuring photographic portraits and stories of personal journeys offered a deep dive into the diversity of research topics being pursued by the Class of 2024. This year’s installation was created by photographer Gabriel Fradin.
The End of a Cycle, the Beginning of a New World
The 2025 ceremony will be remembered as a rite of passage: that of a generation of young researchers ready to put their expertise to work for society. It’s a wonderful way to remind us that while the completion of a Ph.D. marks an achievement, it is above all the starting point for future commitments.
Watch the 2025 doctoral graduation ceremony: