Officiating the conferment
In conferment, the academics involved in the event have clear roles and responsibilities. The university president nominates the conferrer. Other officianti are chosen by the school dean and the conferrer together.
Below, you can get to know the officianti and their responsibilities at the 2026 Ceremonial Conferment of Degrees. The Gratista/Gratisti and the Spirit of Mercury will be announced later. Although the Spirit of Mercury is not formally considered an officiant, the role is nevertheless significant in the conferment.
Conferrer Markku Kuula
The conferrer of degrees bestows the academic title of master or doctor on the promovendi and ensures that the ceremonies proceed smoothly. By tradition, an academically distinguished professor of senior tenure is named to serve in this honorary role.
Master of Ceremonies Seppo Ikäheimo
The master of ceremonies' duties include leading the academic procession and seeing to the due observance of the conventions and protocols at all the ceremonies and events. The person serving in this honorary role is chosen from the faculty of professors. The signature uniform of the MC features a broad red sash.
Head Marshal Marjo-Riitta Diehl
The head marshal organises the work for the marshals and escorts the Spirit of Mercury in the academic procession, among other duties. Generally chosen from the younger ranks of the professorial faculty, the head marshal is identifiably clad in a broad blue sash.