On Saturday, 5 April 2025, the Cornell Club of Switzerland hosted a memorable private tour at the prestigious Fondation de l’Hermitage in Lausanne. This special event brought together 24 Cornellians, along with their families and friends, from across Switzerland to enjoy a day of art, history, and community.
We were honored to be welcomed by Jean-Robert Bugnion, great-grandson of the original owner of the estate and husband of Cornell alumna Jacqueline Bugnion (BA ’62). Jean-Robert generously shared personal insights into the rich history of the property and the founding of the museum, offering a unique and intimate perspective.
The elegant 19th-century mansion, now home to the Hermitage Foundation, is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens that have been transformed into a public park, offering sweeping views of the Lausanne Cathedral, Lake Geneva, and the majestic Alps.
The centerpiece of the visit was the acclaimed exhibition “Trésors du Petit Palais de Genève”, which presents a remarkable collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from the Petit Palais in Geneva. Curated from the extensive holdings of industrialist Oscar Ghez, who began collecting in the 1950s, the exhibition features works by celebrated artists such as Édouard Manet, Auguste Renoir, Gustave Caillebotte, and Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen. Particularly noteworthy is Ghez’s commitment to promoting women artists, including Marie Bracquemond, Jeanne Hébuterne, and Tamara de Lempicka, whose work has gained long-overdue recognition.
After the enriching tour, guests gathered at Restaurant L’Esquisse, nestled within the museum’s lush grounds, for a convivial aperitif. Attendees enjoyed local wines and gourmet finger foods while taking in the spring sunshine and the picturesque setting.
This perfect blend of culture, heritage, and connection made for a truly unforgettable afternoon. We extend our warmest thanks to Jean-Robert and Jacqueline Bugnion, as well as to Christophe Zimmerli (LL.M. ’00), the Club’s President, for organizing and hosting such a wonderful event, and to all who joined us for this inspiring cultural outing.
