The Leysin American School community enjoyed a wonderful graduation weekend celebrating the class of 2026 and their families! The ceremony was emotional and uplifting, with families and students celebrating the completion of years of hard work while excitedly looking ahead to future plans. We know this class will go on to do wonderful things, and we can’t wait to welcome them at future Leysin American School Global Family events around the world!
The celebrations kicked off with a welcome reception at the Fromagerie in Leysin Village, featuring a performance by the Yale Alley Cats a cappella group. It was a lively, casual evening for families, students, and faculty to connect over delicious, traditional Swiss fare at one of Leysin’s favorite gathering spots.
The graduation setting was as beautiful as ever—vibrant blue skies, white snow still lingering on the mountains, and bright sunshine catching the red graduation gowns and caps of our students. Friends and family traveled to Leysin from all over the world to celebrate this year’s graduates. There were happy tears, big hugs, ebullient laughter, and, of course, countless joyful photos taken throughout the day.
Graduating from high school is such an important milestone, and our students should be incredibly proud of everything they have accomplished along the way. Leysin will always be home for our graduates—even long after they leave, they join a vibrant and tightly knit community of thousands of Leysin American School alumni across the globe. Wherever they go, they are likely to find someone who shares the experience of LAS and who will welcome them with warmth and genuine connection.
The ceremony featured opening remarks by the beloved teacher Dr. Richard Campanaro ’95, beautiful choral performances by Leysin American School staff and students with Choir League Leysin, the Senior Awards presentation, and much more. A highlight was the Commencement Address by Mario Haberfeld P’26—philanthropist, conservationist, and proud parent of graduate Mariana—whose inspiring words encouraged graduates, and everyone present, to let dreams evolve, keep ambitions grounded, and make their greatest achievements be the lives they touch.
As is tradition, every student took to the stage to receive their diploma, shake hands with Head of School Dr. Ott, and—more than a few times—snap a selfie or receive a warm hug from a nearby parent. The pews erupted with enthusiastic cheers for each and every graduate.
We are proud of every one of our graduates and grateful to have shared such a meaningful and joyful occasion with them! Congratulations Class of 2026!
