100 years of Institute Montana

The Institute Montana celebrated its 100th anniversary with a grand anniversary celebration on the Zugerberg on Sunday, 3rd May. Around 900 visitors from the region took the opportunity to explore the campus, the school, and boarding school life.
 

The public event focused on the school's past, present, and future. An anniversary trail that led visitors through the campus, brought to life the development of the school since its founding in 1926. Highlights included an exhibition of photos, documents and original materials from 100 years of school history, as well as insights into the school today and boarding school life.

At 20 stations, guests were able to experience various aspects of daily school life, such as outdoor classrooms, laboratories, and art and music rooms, and to obtain a glimpse into the future of the campus.

The Anniversary Celebration on the Zugerberg: Alexander Biner (right), President of the Board of Directors, and the school management team celebrate "100 Years of Institute Montana" and were delighted with the 900 visitors from the region.                  Photo: supplied/Susanne Balanx

The Institute Montana is an integral part of the educational landscape in the Canton of Zug. The school is recognised by the canton and is closely connected to the region. Alexander Biner, President of the Board of Directors, says: “For 100 years, Institute Montana has combined international perspectives with strong regional roots. This anniversary fills us with pride, because it demonstrates that our values continue to resonate today. We are well-positioned and will continue to run our school in a modern environment.”

Around two-thirds of the more than 380 students come from the region, with the remaining third, who live in the boarding school, coming from more than 50 countries. Founded as an all-boys boarding school in 1926, the institute has been committed for 100 years to values that continue to shape the school, and that are lived out in a modern environment. Under one roof, it unites a Swiss school system from primary school to the cantonal Matura (university entrance qualification), together with an international school offering the IB diploma. Small classes and close student support enable individualised learning.

The anniversary day is a part of the anniversary year. Through events and projects, the institute is highlighting its history, its values and its role in the region. Further anniversary events for alumni, partners, families, and staff will take place on the Zugerberg in early July, and a commemorative book will also be released.

In the autumn, the Zug Library (Bibliothek Zug) will present the "100 Years of Montana: The Past. The Present. The Future." exhibition.

Report for the Institute Montana by Susanne Balanx