SPP Celebrates Graduation of Students across Master’s Programs

The CEU School of Public Policy graduated 68 students across three programs: 33 in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, 27 in the MA in Public Policy (one-year MAPP) program, and eight in the Erasmus Mundus MAPP program. "This year was a great one for our students," said incoming dean Julia Buxton. "It marked the first year that all public policy programs at CEU are housed within SPP."

In recognition of academic achievement, the student with the highest GPA in each program was honored during the graduation ceremony. This year, the Outstanding Academic Achievement awards went to Giang Vu (MPA '16), Ben Spies (one-year MAPP '16), and Mihail Popsoi (Mundus MAPP '16).

"There are two things I like most about SPP," said Vu. "Many professors and administrative staff really care about the development of individual students, which I know is a luxury for many students at other institutions. I also treasure all the friends I've made and become close with. I've learnt a lot from all of them - friends, staff, and professors - not only academically but also professionally. I believe my connection with SPP will go far beyond the commencement ceremony."

Like Vu, Spies will also treasure friendships started at SPP. "The best part of this whole experience has been connecting with my classmates from around the world," he said. "I never got tired of talking about our diverse experiences and worldviews, and I look forward to continuing to do so over the course of long-lasting friendships."

In addition to the 68 master's students graduating, SPP also celebrated the graduation of seven PhD students in the public policy track of the political science PhD program at the CEU Doctor School of Political Science, Public Policy and International Relations.