André Lévy-Lang (1937–2026)

It is with great sadness that IHES learned of the passing of André Lévy-Lang on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

A member of the Board of Directors, co-chair of the Institute’s second fundraising campaign, and a member of the committees for its first and third campaigns, André Lévy-Lang played a crucial role in the development of IHES for more than 25 years.

IHES extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

Emmanuel Ullmo, Director of IHES, pays tribute:

“Beyond these responsibilities, I remember a deeply visionary man who was always a source of sound advice. His guidance and support over the years were of inestimable value to me and to IHES alike, and it is with immense gratitude that we will remember him.”

Philippe Lagayette, Honorary Chairman of the Institute’s Board of Directors, recalls:

“I had known André Lévy-Lang for a long time when he first became involved with IHES, of which I was then Chairman. He served on the Finance Committee, which advises the Institute on the management of its finances. He joined the Board of Directors in 2004 and took an active part in the fundraising campaigns that enabled the Institute to strengthen its financial footing and secure its independence.

Together with Andrew Gould, former CEO of Schlumberger, he chaired the committee for the second fundraising campaign with great effectiveness. His decisive contribution was often to develop the line of reasoning and identify the arguments most likely to resonate with a particular prospective donor, and then to draw on the strength of his relationships to persuade them.

Through all these activities, he demonstrated a deep attachment to the Institute, which owes him a great deal. André Lévy-Lang will be remembered as a brilliant man, a friend of intellectual life, committed to effectiveness and economic success, and warm and generous toward all those fortunate enough to have known him.”

To learn more about André Lévy-Lang’s commitment to IHES and to science more broadly, read the tribute by Jean-Pierre Bourguignon, former Director of IHES and Nicolaas Kuiper Honorary Professor at the Institute, here.

Photo credit: © Chris Peus