Joy filled the halls of Manado Independent School (MIS) as hundreds of students celebrated a significant milestone. On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, MIS held its 21st Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2025 at the MIS Auditorium, honoring the graduation of Grade XII high school students for the 2024–2025 academic year. The ceremony was a vibrant celebration of gratitude, featuring heartfelt speeches, exceptional student performances, and the presentation of awards, marking a memorable moment for students, parents, and faculty alike.
The previous day, Tuesday, June 17, featured earlier graduation ceremonies for 114 junior high school students, 89 elementary school students, and 24 kindergartners, each proudly walking the stage in full academic regalia. Parents watched with pride as their sons and daughters received diplomas and warm congratulations from MIS leaders, led by Mr. Billy Donald Kumolontang, MBA, Director of MIS.
Also present were key figures in MIS leadership: Dr. Vijaya Kumar Kollabathula, Principal; Mr. Imanuel Usman Touwelly, M.Ed., Vice Principal of Academic Services; and Dr. Joppi Jacobus Rondonuwu, Chairman of the School Board. The ceremony was further graced by the presence of Dr. Dan Gheorghe Serb, President of Newbold College of Higher Education in the UK.
The commencement opened with the Indonesian national anthem, Indonesia Raya, followed by the MIS Hymn (Mars). The ceremony also recognized students who excelled in both academic and non-academic areas with a series of prestigious awards.
Mrs. Teresita Karundeng-Sanchez, MAEd, Head of Admissions, expressed her appreciation for the success of the event:
“We are deeply grateful for how everything came together so meaningfully. Our greatest hope is that these graduates will continue to succeed at the next level. For our high school graduates, especially, we pray they achieve their dreams and gain admission into the universities they’ve worked so hard for.”
As awards continue to lead MIS students to the stage, the school community celebrates not only academic accomplishments but also the character, vision, and dedication that define the next generation of leaders.
