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The evening brought together current MA students for a gathering filled with reflection, appreciation, and inspiration. Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to look back on the program’s achievements over the past 12 years, exchange perspectives on their own learning journeys, and engage in meaningful conversations about the evolving field of communication. The atmosphere encouraged community-building, allowing students to connect not only with one another but also with the program’s traditions, values, and vision for the future.

This anniversary holds particular symbolic meaning: at 12 years old, the program reaches a developmental milestone that mirrors Jean Piaget’s final stage of cognitive development—the formal operational stage. Just as a child at this age begins to think abstractly, reason logically, and approach problems with greater complexity, the Communication Management MA program also enters a new phase of maturity and reflection. With this milestone comes an important addition to the program’s traditions: beginning this year, a Distinguished Alumna/Alumnus will be selected annually in recognition of notable professional achievements and meaningful contributions to the field. This new tradition marks a significant moment in the program’s history, further strengthening the connection between current students and the accomplished graduates who inspire them.

As a highlight of the event, students welcomed this year’s Distinguished Alumna, Tea Mariamidze, who graduated cum laude in 2020. Tea has built an impressive career in the field of education and currently serves as the Office Administrator and Wellness Coordinator at the International School of Estonia. Her professional journey stands as a strong testament to the program’s impact and the diverse opportunities it opens for graduates.

Tea joined the celebration virtually to speak about how the Communication Management program shaped her academic and professional development. The online connection had a special reason behind it: the event coincided with Tea’s birthday. Despite her personal celebrations, she generously took the time to reconnect with the program and share insights with current students.

In her remarks, Tea emphasized the value of adaptability, leadership, and strategic communication in today’s dynamic environment. She highlighted how the program equipped her with essential competencies that continue to support her career growth, both professionally and personally. Her reflections provided meaningful encouragement to students preparing to enter the communication field. Participants noted that Tea’s story added a memorable and inspiring dimension to the anniversary celebration. Her achievements illustrate the program’s ongoing commitment to preparing future leaders in communication, and the community takes great pride in her success.

And yes — the celebration featured a cake. Why was it named “TELECOLLABORATION 5”?
Stay tuned: tomorrow’s blog story will reveal the answer.

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For additional information, please reach out to Dr. Anastassia Zabrodskaja, Professor of Intercultural Communication, Head of the MA Program in Communication Management, and Executive Director of the European Masters in Intercultural Communication, at anastassia.zabrodskaja@tlu.ee.