On May 22, 2025, the École normale supérieure Foundation had the honor of welcoming its major donors for its annual dinner, held in a prestigious setting designed to foster strategic and intellectual exchange. The evening featured a high-level discussion on the theme: “France / Europe: Responding to Geopolitical and Technological Disruptions.”
A Dialogue Between Leading Figures
The discussion brought together three prominent figures:
- Laurent Fabius, former Prime Minister and President of the Constitutional Council
- Thomas Buberl, CEO of AXA
- Jacques Aschenbroich, Chairman of Orange Group
The conversation was moderated by Stéphanie Ruphy, professor at ENS and director of the Space Chair, in the presence of Stéphane Israël, President of the Foundation, and Frédéric Worms, Director of ENS.
A Thoughtful Reflection on Today’s Challenges
With clarity and ambition, the speakers addressed some of today’s most pressing issues: rising international tensions, the climate transition, digital transformation, the role of artificial intelligence, and Europe’s position in this evolving global landscape. Exchanges with the audience emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between realism about the threats and the optimism required to build collective solutions.
A Meaningful and Warm-Hearted Evening
The evening also featured a musical interlude by internationally renowned violinist Marina Chiche, offering a moment of poetic pause that matched the spirit of this committed and convivial gathering.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our guests for the clarity of their insights, their strong commitment to Europe, and their continued confidence in the future of ENS.