May 17, 2025 | Chengdu—To mark Southwest Jiaotong University’s (SWJTU) 129th anniversary, School of Economics and Management (SEM) welcomed back graduates from its 2001 undergraduate and 2012 MBA cohort for milestone reunions. Alumni traveled from across the country to reconnect with classmates, revisit cherished memories, and celebrate their enduring ties to their alma mater.
The 10-year reunion symposium for the 2012 MBA cohort, themed “Rooted in Alma Mater, Thriving Everywhere,” was held on Jiuli Campus. Ms. YU Xiaoying, Deputy Secretary of the CPC SEM Committee, extended a warm welcome to the returning alumni. Professor ZHAO Dongmei and ZHOU Jing, faculty representatives who once taught the alumni, attended the event. They joined the former students in recalling and sharing warm memories of their study days at the School of Economics and Management.
ZHOU drew inspiration from the legacy of MAO Yisheng, “Father of Modern Chinese Bridges” and a distinguished SWJTU alumnus. She encouraged the alumni to continue striving for excellence in their fields, embodying SWJTU’s spirit of “Persevering in Self-improvement for the Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation; Fortifying Oneself to Ceaseless Activity”.
Alumnus FENG Tao shared how his SEM education shaped his career. “The knowledge I gained from courses like Strategic Management was instrumental in my transition to a professional manager role,” he said. “The insights from my MBA were also invaluable when I later started my own business.” To express their gratitude and affection for the school, the 2012 MBA alumni presented a homecoming souvenir to the School of Economics and Management to the school.
Afterward, the group toured SWJTU’s State Key Laboratory of Rail Transit Vehicle Systems to learn about its latest advancements.
Alumni of the 2001 undergraduate cohort returned for their 20th graduation anniversary homecoming event themed “Youth Beyond Doubt, Two Decades Like a Song; Back as Young at Heart”. After a nostalgic tour of the campus, they gathered with 17 of their former professors for a class forum. In a touching moment, alumni representatives presented bouquets to their teachers to express their deep gratitude for their guidance and mentorship.
“It’s incredible to be back after all these years,” one alumnus remarked. “Reuniting with classmates and teachers on our alma mater’s anniversary is a truly special experience.”
The day of reunions was a heartfelt celebration of shared history and lasting friendships. It strengthened the bond between the alumni and the school, reinforcing that no matter how far they go, SEM will always be a home they can return to.
