Transformative Learning: Visiting a Multigenerational Living Community in Switzerland

Abstract Global studies are transformative for students (Jean-Francois, Sharma, & Obi, 2023) and intergenerational experiences help students to view aging through a cross-cultural lens and better understand the importance of intergenerational connections (Montepare & Leedahl, 2020) and aging in place. In May 2025, 26 undergraduates and two faculty members visited The Foundry (Giesserei) – a grassroots community designed specifically for multigenerational living in Winterthur, Switzerland. Including 155 apartments and housing individuals across the lifespan, the community contains a library, preschool, restaurant and art gallery. As the first Americans to tour the facility, we will highlight our perspectives of this unique opportunity.