May 22, 2025, will be remembered as a first in the annals of the Faculty of Science: that of a faculty-inclusive aperitif. Hosted in the inviting spaces of the Ethnography Museum of Geneva (MEG), the event supported by all sections brought together over 300 members of the community - researchers, teaching staff, and administrative and technical personnel - in an atmosphere at once festive and committed.

Envisioned as a “non-academic” yet profoundly university-centric moment, this gathering aimed to build new bridges between disciplines, professions, and backgrounds. Playful icebreaker activities were organized to encourage cross-disciplinary exchanges among people who don’t always cross paths in their daily work. Through association games, cooperative challenges, and impromptu conversations, institutional somewhat barriers dissolved in favor of a dynamic of mutual appreciation and discovery.

The active presence of the entire Décanat - not in a formal asset but behind the counter - added a warm and unexpected touch to the event. Dean Costanza Bonadonna, flanked by her vice-deans, took her place behind the counter to welcome everyone with a smile. A symbolic way to reaffirm that the Faculty’s leadership intends to engage directly in the field, close to its teams.

In a brief but inspired speech, the Dean reminded attendees that “this moment is in no way official, yet it is entirely essential”. Drawing on her identity as a geologist, she likened the Faculty to a living ecosystem, where each member - whether researcher, administrative and technical personnel, doctoral candidate - occupies a fundamental role. A message of unity and richness in diversity, delivered with simplicity and conviction.

More than just an aperitif, this evening was an opportunity to celebrate a multidimensional, inventive, and supportive Faculty that seeks not only to excel but also to foster a spirit of belonging, exchange, dialogue, and openness across all members. At the crossroads of careers and generations, this inaugural gathering succeeded in making visible what often remains the invisible richness of our community: the bonds that connect us beyond disciplines, titles and functions.

An event to repeat? Judging by the laughter, animated discussions, and raised glasses that night, the answer is clearly yes.