On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted the PSPSR Alumni Gathering: Reconnecting Bonds, Sharing Aspirations.
Held at the 5th-floor Auditorium of the UGM Graduate School, the event was warmly attended by PSPSR students, lecturers, and alumni. The session featured contributions from Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., Dr. Aris Setiawan, S.Sn., M.Sn., and Karen Hardini, M.A., with Heni Siswantari, M.A. serving as moderator.
Dr. Paramitha opened the discussion by presenting the evolution of the PSPSR curriculum over the years. Karen Hardini, M.A. then delivered a compelling reflection titled “Artistic Works and Their Surroundings”, sharing her project experience in Kudus and its relevance to the curriculum she encountered during her time at PSPSR.
The discussion continued with a lively and humorous session by Dr. Aris Setiawan, S.Sn., M.Sn., who fondly recalled the memorable expressions of Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., such as his iconic “em… em em…” – greeted with enthusiastic applause from the audience. Dr. Aris emphasized the importance of returning research results to society and fostering reciprocal engagement, turning academic work into a shared space for connection and contribution.
Many attendees, especially alumni and students, reflected on their mentoring experiences with Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., which left a lasting impression throughout their academic journey. Informally, students, lecturers, and alumni mingled, sharing warm conversations and often gravitating towards friends from their cohort years.
The discussion closed with reflections from alumni who have become pioneers in their academic fields, highlighting how their experiences at PSPSR equipped them with the adaptability and expertise needed in new professional environments. This provided critical insights for future curriculum development aimed at fostering social relevance and impact.
The event concluded with expressions of gratitude, group photos, and a friendly gathering that reinforced connections within the PSPSR community. This activity is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) within the academic community. (Ony Setyawan)
