SHL Graduating Class of July 2021 — Photo by Photo credit: Werner Tschan
SHL Graduating Class of March 2021 — Photo by Photo credit: Werner Tschan

This week, SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern celebrates the graduation of 71 new Hôtelières-Restauratrices HF and Hôteliers-Restaurateurs HF.

"What a shame, we're finally done!"

Although 40 of the SHL graduates already received copies of their diplomas when their final semester ended in March, on Wednesday they were finally presented with the originals during the on-site graduation ceremony. Only 24 hours later, 31 students from the July 2021 graduating class completed their education at SHL with their graduation ceremony in Lucerne. In his speech, SHL graduate Tim Rychener acknowledged the special moment and the end of an era with the words "What a shame, we are finally done!". The ceremonies were opened by the Vice President of the SHL Foundation Board, Max Züst, who in addition to offering congratulations, called on the future leaders to work hard to create a positive, friendly and inclusive work atmosphere in the organisations they will be joining. "These important so-called soft factors pay off both in human and economic terms," Max Züst said. 

The paradox of digital proximity

Alluding to the recent months the students have spent in distance learning, SHL Director Christa Augsburger chose to touch upon the idea of digital closeness in her commencement speech. "At first glance a paradox - and yet we were allowed to experience digital proximity," Christa Augsburger noted. Never has contacting and communicating with the students been so easy, uncomplicated, with few hurdles and without hierarchy. She also thanked the graduating classes for their commitment to maintaining the SHL spirit despite the physical distance and paid them a big compliment: "You, dear students, have all demonstrated in an impressive way how you can successfully adapt to changed circumstances." 

About SHL

SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern has been the practice-oriented and innovative educational institution since 1909, paving the way for young, success-oriented students to en ter the national and international hospitality industry. As one of the two original Swiss hotel management schools, SHL has played a significant role in shaping hotel management educa tion in Switzerland. Graduates of SHL hold leadership positions in the hotel industry, gastron omy, and other service sectors in Switzerland as well as internationally.

Maria Ramstad Kristiansen
Head of Marketing & Student Recruitment
SHL Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Luzern