CIS Bangalore Sends Off Class of 2026 With "To Infinity and Beyond" Graduation Ceremony

Bangalore — The graduating class of Canadian International School (CIS) Bangalore marked their transition to the next chapter with a commencement ceremony built around the motivational theme "To Infinity and Beyond." The occasion brought together school leadership, faculty, families, and students to honour the academic and personal achievements of the Class of 2026.

The ceremony struck a balance between reflective moments and aspirational messaging, with speakers emphasizing both the graduates' accomplishments and the possibilities that lie ahead. Board members and school officials attended the event alongside proud parents and the student body.

A Distinguished Alumnus Inspires the Graduates

The school invited Mr. Vignesh Nambiar, a former CIS student now established in his career, to serve as the ceremony's featured speaker. Drawing on his own experience as a student at the institution, Mr. Nambiar encouraged the graduating cohort to take calculated risks, demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges, and challenge themselves to move beyond conventional thinking—sentiments that resonated with the day's overarching message.

School Leadership Reflects on the Class

Ms. Shweta Sastri, Managing Director of CIS Bangalore, commended the graduates for their determination and intellectual capabilities. "The Class of 2026 has demonstrated remarkable grit, intellect, and creativity," she remarked. She noted that the year's theme directly reflects the graduates' potential without limits. Sastri emphasized the school's commitment to developing globally-minded individuals who not only adapt to changing circumstances but actively contribute to shaping the world around them. She expressed confidence that the graduates would carry forward the institution's core principles—compassion, integrity, and a commitment to continuous learning—as they pursue their ambitions.

Dr. Ted Mockrish, Head of School, highlighted the significance of celebration and joy on such an occasion. He observed that the ceremony captured the warmth and humour that had characterised the day's speakers, from the guest of honour to the student valedictorian. "Today was a wonderful and joyous occasion for so many families at CIS who have been with us through the years," Dr. Mockrish said, adding his best wishes for the graduates' future endeavours.

Voices from the School Community

The ceremony also captured the emotional resonance of the day through remarks from parents and students. One parent, Ms. Verghis, described the experience as touching and bittersweet as she watched her son graduate. "Today was a very emotional, very touching and very sweet ceremony. It was hard to say goodbye," she reflected.

Mohini, who served as Student Council President for the Class of 2026, spoke about the satisfaction of witnessing her peers receive recognition for their dedication. "Today was really fulfilling. It was so nice to see my classmates receive awards that they worked so hard for. I am so glad that my classmates were recognized as they are usually students who don't seek out recognition," she shared.

Joining the Global Alumni Network

The ceremony concluded with the time-honoured tradition of cap tossing, formally inducting the Class of 2026 into CIS's worldwide network of alumni. Armed with a rigorous international education and a forward-thinking outlook, the graduates are positioned to pursue their varied paths with confidence and purpose.