60 Years Later: The Reunion of the Class of 1964

Happy 60th Anniversary to the Mathematics Class of 1964!

On October 1st, ENS Paris-Saclay welcomed back its alumni from the Class of 1964 for an emotional reunion filled with nostalgia and a strong sense of belonging. Nearly 60 years after their entry into the school, these former students returned to see how their alma mater, the École normale de l’enseignement technique (ENSET), had evolved into today’s ENS Paris-Saclay.

Anne Peyroche, Vice President for Strategy and Resources, opened this memorable gathering with a speech steeped in history and nostalgia:
"1964, a leap year starting on a Wednesday, was a time of radical global change—from France recognizing the People’s Republic of China to the adoption of the Civil Rights Act in the United States. It was also the year you walked through the doors of this school, a pivotal moment in the lives of the young students you were back then."

She reflected on the school’s transformations over the decades, emphasizing enduring features such as the 1957 "1% artistic" works still present on campus. These now sit alongside those of 2020, symbolizing a bridge between past and present. She also noted the evolution of academic programs:
"In 1964, a new academic structure introduced a fourth year to prepare for the agrégation, established by decree. Sixty years later, this remains true! About a third of ENS students still prepare for the agrégation today, with the proportion even higher in mathematics."

For these alumni, who had attended the school at its original Cachan location, the visit to the new campus provided a striking contrast to their memories.
"It is the same school, yet also a different one from the one you joined. It is like an old lady who regularly rejuvenates herself to renew and adapt to society's needs, all while never forgetting who she is or where she came from," Anne Peyroche remarked.

A Lasting Bond with the School and Strong Intergenerational Ties

This reunion will remain etched in memory, underscoring the enduring bond between ENS Paris-Saclay and its alumni. Together, they perpetuate the "spirit of ENS," blending excellence and knowledge-sharing seamlessly.

The event also fostered meaningful intergenerational exchanges between former students and current ENS Paris-Saclay students. As Anne Peyroche highlighted:
"As alumni, you are an essential link in this chain of knowledge and science."

The gathering concluded with heartfelt thanks:
"If your attendance in such numbers today is any indication, your attachment to this school remains as strong as ever, even after more than 60 years. For that, we thank you."