News

By Michelle Tarnopolsky

Last spring, Syracuse Florence welcomed a visitor whose presence bridged centuries of history and affection. Licia Guerrini D’Ambrosio, daughter-in-law of Giovanni Guerrini—the devoted majordomo to Countess Bona Gigliucci—returned to the Villa Rossa for the first time in over four decades. Her visit, guided by Director Sasha Perugini, was deeply emotional, a homecoming steeped in memory and legacy.

“I live in my memories,” Licia began, seated in her Florence home surrounded by paintings by the Countess herself. Before she returned to visit the Villa Rossa, we visited her and her daughter Simona at home. Licia’s story unfolded like a tapestry, woven with love, loyalty, and the quiet dignity of a life lived in service and kinship.

Villa Rossa, built in 1892 by Countess Bona’s father Mario, was more than a residence—it was a sanctuary of upbringing and tradition. Licia’s three children grew up playing in its gardens every Sunday, embraced by the Countess as if they were her own. Her husband Paolo was just two months old when his parents, Giovanni and Lea Guerrini, moved into the mezzanine apartment of the villa. Giovanni, affectionately known as “Babbo Nanni,” served the Countess for 58 years, managing staff, training Syracuse café workers, and overseeing the gardener—Sergio Landi’s father.

Room 35, now a classroom, once echoed with the brushstrokes of Bona’s paintings. “How marvelous!” Licia exclaimed upon learning of its new purpose. The transformation of the villa into an academic haven did not erase its soul—it enriched it.

Prompted by a newspaper article about Daniel D’Aniello’s generous $10 million donation to Syracuse Florence, Licia felt compelled to return. Her visit revealed layers of history: the original café space was once the servant’s kitchen, and during WWII, an English commander lived in an apartment in the area of our new café, helping protect Allied soldiers. The villa was spared from bombing, a testament to its role in resistance.

Licia’s recollections painted a vivid portrait of the Gigliucci family. Summers in Fermo, a house with views from mountains to sea, and the heartbreak of losing it after Bona’s death due to financial mismanagement. Despite wealth, the family lived simply—reflected in the modest tombs of Count Mario and Edith Mosley, restored by Syracuse Florence.

Bona’s affection for the Guerrini family ran deep. She was godmother to Licia’s daughter Simona, attended her baptism, and often sent her driver Guido to take the family to the beach. Giovanni, ever meticulous, ensured every piece of silver destined for England was accounted for—“not even a teaspoon could be missing,” Licia laughed.

Bona’s brother Donatello (“Conte Nello”) was a witness at Licia and Paolo’s wedding in 1961. He read a moving letter dedicated to them at the wedding banquet, whose guests included the Countess.

The villa was a place of refinement and warmth. Sunday lunches were sacred: the family dined at noon, and Giovanni would change into his white jacket, gloves, and tie to serve Bona at 1 p.m. Licia recalled helping the Countess in her final years, keeping her company, walking with her, and being by her side when she passed away in her nightgown. “Three is a perfect number,” Bona had said when Licia told her she was expecting her third child.

Even today, Licia and her children visit Bona’s grave at the Cimitero delle Porte Sante, just below San Miniato. Her connection to the villa and its people remains unbroken. She showed us cherished items from the Signorina’s living room—a lamp, a chair, a table—and books, including Count Mario’s father’s spiritual testament, a copy of which is now preserved in the Syracuse archives.

Villa Rossa has nurtured remarkable lives. Licia spoke of a boy who lived in the villa in the apartment once occupied by the British commander. After losing his mom at a young age he was raised alongside Paolo and went on to a successful career at Nuovo Pignone. “Some singular people came out of this villa,” she said, her voice full of pride.

As Licia walked through the halls of Villa Rossa once more, memories flooded back. The walnut dining room, now a classroom, the offices where Donatello once lived, and the echoes of a family that shaped her life. Her visit was not just a return—it was a tribute to a legacy of love, loyalty, and the quiet grace of lives intertwined with history.

This fall, Syracuse Florence students stepped beyond the classroom to engage in a meaningful conversation exchange with elderly residents of Florence, organized by Immersive Learning Coordinator Mario Russo. It was a unique opportunity for students to practice Italian in real-life settings while building intergenerational connections.

Russo explains:

“Our students are learning directly from the community by collecting oral histories from elderly residents. Rather than a replacement for classroom work, it’s a way to use the language they’re learning in real conversations and to build practical skills.”

Students described the experience as eye-opening and deeply rewarding:

Annemarie

Visiting Montedomini in Florence with my Italian class was truly memorable and heartwarming. Walking into the elderly home, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and connection, even before we began to sing. The residents greeted us with smiles and curiosity, and despite the differences in age and background, there was a shared sense of joy that filled the room. Singing familiar Italian songs like Bella Ciao together created a beautiful moment of unity as music bridged the gap between generations and languages.

For me, this visit was more than just an opportunity to practice Italian. It showed me how language, music, and kindness can connect people on a deeply human level. Leaving Montedomini, I felt grateful for the experience and inspired by the warmth and resilience of the residents. It was a day filled with joy, connection, and genuine emotion that I will never forget.

Marina

I found the experience to be incredibly valuable and immersive. Though speaking with the elderly required relatively advanced Italian skills, I believe that it encouraged me to become thoughtful and resourceful about the skills I do possess and create connections in that way. In particular, because most shop attendants and restaurant owners speak English in Florence, I hadn’t been pushed out of my comfort zone until this experience. I believe that being placed in challenging and immersive situations is the most effective way to learn a language. 

Brendan

Visiting the elderly community home was such a memorable and meaningful experience. We sat three to a table and had the opportunity to speak with the residents entirely in Italian, asking them questions about where they were from, their lives, and their families. It was both a great way to practice the language and a chance to connect with people who had so many interesting stories to share. After our conversations, we drew portraits of them based on how they described their appearance, which made the interaction even more personal and creative. It was really special to see how proud and happy they were to be part of the activity, and it helped us see how language can bridge generations and bring people together. Overall, the visit was not only a fun learning experience but also something that made our class feel more connected to the local Florentine community. I think this kind of activity should definitely be done again by future classes—it’s an amazing way to practice Italian while making a genuine human connection.

The exchange not only helped students improve their Italian, but also fostered empathy, cultural understanding, and a sense of community.

As Syracuse Florence continues to expand its immersive learning offerings, initiatives like this demonstrate the power of language to connect people across generations and cultures.

Syracuse University recently wrapped up its inaugural Multi-Center Trip, a groundbreaking initiative that brought together students from the Florence and Madrid centers for an enriching experience hosted by the Strasbourg center. This unique journey offered student ambassadors an exceptional opportunity to deepen their understanding of European dynamics, highlighting the transformative power of study abroad as a catalyst for academic and civic growth.

At the Heart of Europe

The trip took students to the historic cities of Strasbourg, France, and Freiburg, Germany—once battlegrounds of centuries-old conflicts, now symbols of European unity and reconciliation. As students walked the cobbled streets and engaged with the region’s rich cultural heritage, they gained firsthand insight into the evolution of peace and cooperation on the continent.

Sasha Perugini, Director of Syracuse Florence, captured the spirit of the experience:

“I am still lingering in the vibrant energy of this field trip. Truly memorable. Infinite thanks to all the students who participated and engaged so profoundly.”

At the Heart of Democracy

Students had the rare privilege of visiting the Council of Europe, the continent’s first institution dedicated to promoting democracy and justice. They also attended a plenary session of the European Parliament, witnessing the legislative process that shapes the future of the European Union.

One of the most impactful moments came during a conversation with Dario Nardella, Member of the European Parliament, who shared powerful words just before stepping into a parliamentary debate:

“You are not the future, you are the present. You can change the world.”

Dialogue with Institutions

Throughout the trip, students engaged in meaningful dialogue with distinguished leaders, including Bjorn Berge, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe. These exchanges offered invaluable perspectives on international governance and diplomacy, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement and global awareness.

Reflecting on the experience, Rachael Smith, Assistant Director for Students’ Academic Success at Syracuse Florence, shared:

“If I could sum up this trip in one word, it would be proud. I’m proud of our students—for their behavior, for the way they embraced and engaged with every opportunity, for the way they made connections with the other students from the other centers. And I’m proud to have been part of the incredible team working behind the scenes to make it all happen.”

A Collective Effort

This unforgettable journey was made possible through the collaboration of our centers in Florence, Madrid, and Strasbourg, united in their commitment to cultivating globally minded leaders. We extend our deepest gratitude to our students for their curiosity, engagement, and enthusiasm. Your thoughtful questions, open-mindedness, and commitment to learning made this experience truly special.

By Jacqueline Monet David (Wake Forest University) 

On September 21, the Museo Novecento hosted “Opening Loss for an Hour,” an intimate listening event by Kirsten Stromberg within artist and environmentalist Haley Mellin’s fall exhibition, “Siamo Natura” – “We are Nature,” located within Il Giardino delle Leopoldine. The work invited participants to reflect on the urgent realities of extinction and environmental loss by slowing time through sound, creating a rare moment of stillness and listening. 

Kirsten Stromberg, a Syracuse Florence professor who teaches painting and the history of experimental music and sound art, used a sound piece at the center of the event, which expands upon the last known recording of the Kaua’i ‘ō’ō bird, declared extinct in 2023. The Kaua’i ‘ō’ō bird, native to Hawaii, was known for its mating call and its sound has become a symbol of ecological absence. 

Stromberg’s work stretched the recording, originally only a couple of minutes, into an hour-long soundscape, creating an extended meditation out of a short moment. The recording captures the last male’s unanswered mating call, allowing listeners to reflect on how we, as a society, handle the extinctions our planet faces. While the listening event was, as Stromberg said, a “homage” to the Kaua’i ‘ō’ō bird, it also doubled as an hour for listeners to reflect on our relationship with the planet and its many beings. “Opening Loss for an Hour” provided listeners with the chance to mourn the silence left behind by vanished species while simultaneously reconsidering humanity’s relationship with the natural world. 

——————————————————————————————————————–

On September 20, Syracuse Florence Art Professor Marco Klee Fallani opened his exhibit entitled: “Momenti…impressioni di vita quotidiana” (“Moments…impressions of everyday life”). The exhibit includes 42 paintings and 20 sculptures, most created within the past year, with a few spanning the last decade. 

Fallani’s work stands out for its ability to capture the quiet beauty and essence of everyday life. Drawing on artistic traditions while incorporating a contemporary touch, his paintings and sculptures include symbolic and evocative elements. A recurring motif in his work is the empty bowl, often surrounded by emptiness and darkness. For Fallani, the bowl represents receptivity and reflection, a philosophical theory and reminder that only through emptiness can one be open to receiving new experiences or emotions. His still lifes transform mundane objects into meditative metaphors for life and its beauty, encouraging viewers to reflect on often overlooked details of their surroundings. 

The exhibit highlights Fallani’s versatility in medium and theme. Among the works are watercolors and sculptures, pieces that combine found and recycled materials showcasing his commitment to sustainability and creative reuse. One notable room in the show, designed as a space for weddings, features circular paintings that evoke both emptiness and unity. Fallani’s approach bridges the archeological with the contemporary, rediscovering timeless ideas through a modern lens. 

Syracuse Florence recently had the privilege of participating in a deeply meaningful local initiative that blends sustainability, education, and inclusion. In partnership with ReaKiro, a company dedicated to responsible electronic and electrical waste management, we supported a transformative workshop at Associazione Casadasé, a rehabilitation center serving individuals on the autism spectrum.

This innovative workshop, the “Dasé Lab,” trains neurodivergent young adults to dismantle and recover components from discarded electronics—giving new life not only to old devices but to the skills and confidence of its participants. Through hands-on learning, they gain valuable technical abilities like identifying hardware components, working through step-by-step processes, and sorting electronic waste responsibly. Just as importantly, they develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and patience.

Thanks to the collaboration of our IT department, led by Salvatore Panico, several outdated computers from Villa Rossa were donated to the workshop, where they now serve as tools for learning and growth. Syracuse Florence also made a financial contribution to help sustain and expand this impactful program.

This initiative is more than just recycling—it’s about reclaiming potential. It’s a powerful example of how community partnerships can create inclusive opportunities and help neurodivergent individuals prepare for meaningful employment.

We’re proud to be part of a project that not only supports environmental sustainability but also champions social equity and empowerment.

By Mario Russo, Immersive Learning Coordinator, Syracuse Florence

On September 24th, we welcomed sociolinguist and translator Vera Gheno, one of the foremost experts on the Italian language and the changes it has undergone over the past 40 years in particular, and in today’s Italian society.

She spoke to our Fall semester students about the structure of Italian within the framework of European languages, the thorny issue of grammatical gender in Italian nouns, and how the diktat of masculine/feminine gender in Italian influences today’s Italian society in defining women’s roles in the workplace and in high-level professions, once almost exclusively the domain of men.

While nowadays we finally witness women’s success in all professional fields and we have female airplane pilots, lawyers, ministers, mayors, etc., we cannot say that there is the same recognition from a linguistic standpoint. Many Italians, even those with very high cultural levels, are still reluctant to use words like ‘la ministra’ (the female minister), ‘la sindaca’ (the female mayor), ‘l’avvocata’ (the female lawyer).

Vera Gheno also gave us food for thought and reading suggestions on how to overcome the use of masculine forms to indicate feminine ones as well.

Every so often, a student comes along who fully embraces the spirit of study abroad—immersing themselves in the culture, engaging deeply with their academics, and leaving a lasting impression on everyone they meet. At Syracuse Florence, we’re proud to celebrate one such student whose time here has been nothing short of inspiring. From navigating the cobblestone streets of Florence with curiosity and confidence to forging meaningful connections both in and out of the classroom — all while commuting to the University of Pisa for his internship at an engineering laboratory — Christian Han exemplifies what it means to truly commit to the study abroad experience. In this interview, we dive into his journey, insights, and the transformative impact of his time in Italy.

Please tell us a bit about your background.

I’m from Las Vegas, born and raised. My home school is the College of Engineering and Computer Science at Syracuse University, where I’m a mechanical engineering major and currently a rising sophomore. I’m still exploring my career path, but I’ve been considering fields such as the defense industry or aeronautics. I’m also part of the Army ROTC program at Syracuse, which has shaped much of my college experience so far and has played a considerable influence on my career aspirations.

What led you to decide to do an internship abroad?

During my first year in ROTC, our instructor SFC Zellar encouraged us to study abroad, especially during the summer semester in Florence. I thought that pairing a study abroad experience with an internship would be the best way to make the most of my time here — academically, professionally, and culturally. Moreover, Syracuse is known to have an excellent study abroad program so I thought it would be best to take advantage of it while I have time and opportunity to do so.

What has been the best part of your time abroad? The most surprising?

Two parts stand out as the most memorable experiences. First is oil painting — I enrolled in a local art school here to learn oil painting from scratch, and each session has been incredibly pleasant and fulfilling. What made it even more enjoyable was having the chance to chat with other students around me, who were almost all international like myself, visiting from all around the world from New Zealand to Mexico.Second is practicing Kendo at a local dojo. I serve as the president of the Kendo Club at Syracuse University, where we haven’t had a sensei, or a proper instructor for that matter, in multiple years. That means that more experienced members like me have taken up the mantle of leadership and instruction in their place. Although we try our best, our understanding of the art is unfortunately, but understandably, limited, and it certainly shows in our lackluster performances at intercollegiate tournaments such as the annual Shoryuhai hosted by Harvard University. So being able to train in a formal dojo environment with dedicated instructors and fellow kendoka (kendo practitioners) has been an invaluable and most impactful experience, as it has not only help refine my own skills but also provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I can bring back and teach others at home.

As for what surprised me the most: how widely English is spoken here. It’s made navigating daily life much more accessible for an individual like me who finds it substantially difficult to learn a new language.

Your host mom said she wishes all students were as engaged as you are. Any tips for future students on immersing yourself in the local culture?

My advice would be to just throw yourself out there. Try new things, even if they’re outside your comfort zone, and take advantage of the many opportunities available. Every experience adds something to your perspective — whether it’s cultural, personal, or professional.

You took advantage of every opportunity we offer while you’ve been here (volunteering, book club, field trips, etc.). What have you enjoyed the most?

Volunteering has been one of the most enjoyable aspects. I spent most of my time assisting in the garden at St. James Church — planting, cultivating, and connecting with others. It felt meaningful not just as an act of service but also as a way to engage with the local community on a grounded, personal level.

How do you think your experience here will impact your future endeavors?

This experience has definitely broadened my perspective and increased my global awareness. It’s made me more open-minded and reflective. If everything goes as planned, I hope to return again in the spring semester to continue learning and growing here.

This summer, Syracuse University marked a historic milestone with its first-ever inclusive study abroad program, bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities for a transformative two-week journey through Italy. Anchored at the Syracuse University Florence Center, the course titled Inclusive Schools and Societies: Lessons from the Italian Context offered a unique blend of academic exploration, cultural immersion, and inclusive living.

A Vision Years in the Making

The program was led by Dr. Christine Ashby and Dr. Beth Myers, faculty members from the School of Education’s Center on Disability and Inclusion (CDI). Their vision for an inclusive study abroad experience had been in development for years, building on the foundation of previous iterations of the course. This year, in partnership with Syracuse Abroad and the Florence Center, that vision became a reality.

CDI’s mission to make higher education fully inclusive found a new expression in this program, extending the college experience beyond the classroom and across borders.

Who Took Part?

The group included 14 students—a mix of current and former InclusiveU students and School of Education undergraduates—along with two faculty members and two InclusiveU staff. Together, they formed a learning community that lived, dined, traveled, and studied side by side, modeling true inclusion in every aspect of the experience.

Learning Across Italy

The course took students through Florence, Padua, Venice, and Rome, where they visited museums, historical landmarks, schools, and universities. These visits provided rich opportunities to explore how Italy’s long-standing commitment to inclusive education is reflected in its institutions and communities.

Highlights included:

• School and university visits that showcased inclusive practices in action.
• Museum tours that brought history and culture to life.
• Group outings filled with laughter, learning, and lots of gelato.

What Made This Program Unique?

This was the first time Syracuse University offered a study abroad experience that was fully inclusive of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a model in the U.S. for inclusive postsecondary education, InclusiveU continues to break new ground—and this program is a powerful example of what’s possible when inclusion is prioritized.

A Lasting Impact

Beyond the academic insights, the program left a deep personal impact on participants. Students engaged in meaningful discussions about the similarities and differences between U.S. and Italian approaches to inclusion. More importantly, they experienced what it means to live and learn in a truly inclusive environment.

As one faculty member put it, “This kind of immersive learning changes how students view inclusion—and how they view the world.”

Looking Ahead

This pilot program is just the beginning. The hope is that it will pave the way for more inclusive study abroad opportunities at Syracuse University and beyond. By expanding access to global learning, the university continues to lead the way in creating a more inclusive future for all students.

This past spring, Dr. Jennifer Naccarelli returned to the Syracuse Florence campus to visit her daughter, who was following in her footsteps and doing a semester with our program. In addition to teaching, Jennifer trains students in gender-based violence advocacy. She told us how her semester in Florence changed the course of her life.

You were a women’s studies and religious studies major. Please tell us about how Professor Sara Matthews-Grieco’s class impacted you.

I am currently an associate professor of Women & Gender Studies at the University of Delaware.  I credit my time in the Florence program with this career trajectory.  While in Florence, I primarily took Women’s Studies courses and my experience with Prof. Sara Matthews Grieco inspired me to attend graduate school.  She was the first faculty to introduce me to archival research—I was fascinated by the prospect of using historical documents to better understand the experiences of early modern women.  Her course connected the past and the present in ways I wanted to emulate.

You remembered meeting your host mom in room 13 of the Villa Rossa. Why would you recommend that students have the host family experience?

The host family experience enabled me to be more adventurous because I felt like I had a safety net.  They never limited my behavior, travel, or socialization rather just gave me advice for how to navigate Europe.  It was comforting to know that someone local was expecting my arrival home. The Cocciolli family spoiled us and provided beautiful accommodations.  Every morning and evening we shared delicious meals with the family.  I never had to worry about linens, laundry, or other domestic tasks. My time with them ensured that I developed Italian language skills.  They were wonderful, and I quickly felt like Florence was home.

What did you like best about the Syracuse Florence program? 

The Villa Rossa!  It was so special to have a magnificent home base in the heart of Florence. So many wonderful memories took place in the courtyard.  Additionally, I loved meeting the students from other universities.  I keep in touch with many of the friends I made during one brief semester.

How has Florence changed since you studied here? 

Florence is still the beautiful and welcoming city that it was in 1994.  The biggest change is in the size of the crowds.

Any advice for current students?

Try not to travel every weekend.  In fact, consider limiting travel to every third weekend.  I understand the peer pressure to fly all over Europe, but constantly being on the go is exhausting and expensive.  It hinders your ability to settle into your lifestyle and community in Florence.  There are adventures to be had in Florence and the nearby communities that are easy to miss if you are constantly traveling to other countries. Be present and soak it all in.