IMD business school for management and leadership courses
Alumni Relations
IMD alumni came out in force in 2024 to contribute, innovate, and celebrate with IMD. The numbers are a testament to the transformational impact of IMD’s approach to education, and of the goodwill that is a part of our exceptional institutional culture.
As we reflect on some of the many milestones reached in 2024 and on the lives transformed over generations of IMD alumni, we are inspired by what lies ahead. Your enduring confidence in IMD’s role and approach in education lights our path and propels us toward new heights.
Thank you to the more than 600 volunteers for committing your time and skills to make 2024 such a fantastic year.
It would not be possible without you!
- 130,000+ individuals make up the global IMD community.
- 220+ alumni-led events took place in 2024 including Alumni Club and Community of Interest events, career search webinars, and more.
- More than 700 alumni and their partners gathered this year at their MBA and EMBA class reunions – unprecedented attendance.
- 300 alumni and their partners attended the 2024 IMD International Alumni Symposium.
- alumni gathered to celebrate 23 EMBA and MBA class reunions
- More than 150 events were organized by 49 alumni clubs around the world. It is through their fellowship and goodwill that IMD remains in the hearts of participants long after graduation.
Alumni joined us on campus to celebrate two milestone anniversaries in 2024: 25 years of the Executive MBA and the 20th anniversary of the Strategies for Leadership program.
The IMD International Alumni Association moved closer to the institute and alumni when it was reconstituted as the IMD Alumni Association within IMD. It continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating a productive and harmonious partnership dedicated to the sustained engagement and support of the alumni population.
In his first 90 days in office, IMD President David Bach visited alumni in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and India. The journey was a great opportunity to connect and reconnect, share stories, and discuss ways in which IMD can strengthen alumni engagement around the world.
The IMD Development and Alumni Relations Office compiled the first edition of IMD’s new impact report, The IMD Edge: Celebrating Connection and Legacy at IMD. This publication is a work of recognition and gratitude to the cumulative efforts of our alumni and supporters, whom IMD sees as its key differentiator, or “edge,” in executive education.
We are deeply grateful to the remarkable community of IMD alumni and the broader community. Their goodwill is the foundation of our shared achievements at IMD and beyond.
Click on the report and read stories of lasting impact in this fun and dynamic dedication to the commitment of our alumni and supporters through the years.
The IMD/IMEDE MBA Class of 1976 committed $5m toward MBA scholarships – a significant philanthropic gesture that underscores the enduring impact of their education and the strong bonds formed during their time at IMD. The MBA5 Scholarship – named for the fifth MBA class to graduate – will support future MBA students and enhance IMD’s ability to attract top talent.
The first cohort of Hilti STEM Scholars received their degrees in 2024. The six students, each with their unique set of skills and scientific backgrounds, demonstrated exceptional leadership during the 2024 academic year.
In September 2024, Alumnus Douglas Geertz honored IMD with a CHF 5m donation to support research on enhancing economic prosperity in developing countries and maximizing the impact of international development aid. Through thoughtful planning during his lifetime, Douglas Geertz created a legacy that will advance research on effective public-private partnerships in developing economies. The institute is profoundly grateful for his vision and commitment to academic excellence. The gift will be used to endow the Douglas Geertz IMEDE 1988 Chair in Geopolitics and Business. The inaugural holder of the position is Arturo Bris, Professor of Finance and Director of IMD’s World Competitiveness Center. Arturo Bris will ensure this gift will illuminate the path ahead for private partnerships and government aid in developing nations.