HEC Lausanne Alumni Evening 2025 — 50 Years of a Vibrant and Inspiring Community

On Saturday September 27th 2025 more than 330 HEC Lausanne Alumni from all graduating classes, together with political figures, gathered in the Internef building—a symbolic place where so many stories began.

This exceptional evening marked the 50th anniversary of the HEC Lausanne Alumni Association, celebrating half a century of friendship, success, and enduring bonds across generations.

Organizing this event at the very heart of UNIL represented a real challenge, both for the University and for our Association. It was a first: never before had an event of this scale been envisioned in the halls of Internef. While it would have been easier—and certainly more comfortable—to choose a traditional venue, we made the bold decision to return to where it all began.

This “homecoming” required complex coordination with numerous stakeholders, both within UNIL and among our external partners. Work began several months in advance and demanded creativity, flexibility, and unwavering commitment from all teams involved to transform an academic building into a festive and memorable venue. This collective logistical challenge gives even greater significance to this anniversary edition.

A Program Worthy of the Jubilee

As of 6:00 p.m., guests were welcomed with a champagne aperitif from Deutz, in partnership with SCHERER SA, followed by a three-course dinner prepared by Artigus (formerly Nino). Tables were thoughtfully arranged by graduating class, allowing everyone to reconnect with former classmates and revive shared memories—some dating back several decades. The dinner also provided the opportunity to unveil the special 50th anniversary vintage, selected for the occasion and particularly well received. Between refined flavors, lively conversations, and warm reunions, the atmosphere quickly filled with conviviality and emotion.

Photo Innovation Time

The evening continued with a raffle featuring numerous prizes, including two Maurice Lacroix watches, and a dance floor animated by a DJ, accompanied by wine, beer, and champagne bars.

Photo Innovation Time

A United and Grateful Community

Gathered around Dean Marianne Schmid Mast, former Deans, Professors, members of the Committee, as well as current students, all generations were represented. We also had the pleasure of welcoming former General Secretaries and Presidents of the Association.

The event highlighted the richness of the HEC Lausanne Alumni network: a supportive, intergenerational, and inspiring community, united by a shared attachment to its alma mater.

The current Committee, under the presidency of Haja Rajaonarivo, was warmly congratulated for the organization of this landmark event—the result of several months of preparation and the involvement of many volunteers—as well as the office team composed of Laetitia Fatio, Naémie Besson-Kesraoui, Abirnaya Thurairajah, Nvar Maley, and Lucie Poncet.

50 Years of Memories—and what lies ahead

Beyond the celebrations, the evening served as a powerful reminder of an essential truth:

A network lives through the engagement and spirit of its members.

Fifty years after its founding, the HEC Lausanne Alumni Association continues to build connections, pass on its values, and promote HEC excellence far beyond the campus.
A milestone anniversary—and a promise for the next 50 years.

See the Soirée des Alumni 2025 page

See the pictures

Acknowledgements

We extend our warmest thanks to all of our partners, whose valuable support played a decisive role in making this event a success.

Our long-standing partners

Partners of the Evening

Raffle contributors