VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1 FEBRUARY 2017
The American University of Rome Alumni & Friends Magazine
CONTENTS WOLFTRACKS - FEBRUARY 2017 4
Rula Jebreal
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Roman Eats: Etabli
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Alumni News: Dana Phelps (Class of 2008)
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Alumni News: Philopateer Dimitri (Class of 2016)
13
Alumni News: Suzanne Darkan (Class of 2013)
14
Alumni News
16
Distinguished Alumni: Bliss Holloway (Class of 2004)
18
4th Annual Rome Alumni Reunion
20
Class of 2016 Commencement
22
Kayla Fullenwider at AUR
23
Parents’ Weekend 2016
24
Refugee and Displaced Persons Scholarship
26
The James Walston Fund
28
Wolfcubs
30
Out and about in Monteverde Vecchio
EDITOR’S NOTE WOLFTRACKS - FEBRUARY 2017 Wolftracks is back! I am happy to say that slowly but surely the Alumni and Development department, together with Marketing and Communications, is re-thinking, re-styling and re-working our Alumni Magazine. The American University of Rome is at an inflection point: it is growing and changing. Therefore, it is only right that Friends and Alumni are informed of the many things that are happening at AUR. This issue is an overview of the highlights of the past year and is the latent beginning of a change of image and scope for WT. It is mostly the product of the work of my predecessor Anna Schorch and our Marketing Director, Harry Greiner. I just put the icing on the cake this time. With this issue, we wrap up 2016, embrace a new year and a new editorial direction. It is with great excitement that I take on this refreshing project started by Anna and Harry. We have great ideas for the future of Wolftracks, but we would love to hear from you if you have thoughts or desires regarding what you want to find in your alma mater magazine. Enjoy the issue and stay tuned for our next number! Laura Estrada Prada - Alumni & Development Assistant l.estrada@aur.edu
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work in international journalism, as well as the International Fenice Europe Prize for her second book, The Bride of Aswan.
ula Jebreal’s varied body of work reflects her lifelong engagement with topics that have directly impacted her experiences, both professionally and personally: the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the new political order in the Arab-Muslim world, and the nationalist, populist movements rising throughout Europe and the United States. She is also a worldwide-bestselling author whose works have been translated into more than 15 languages.
In 2006, Rula co-presented Anno Zero, one of the most important investigative political television shows in Italy, together with Italian veteran journalist Michele Santoro. Over the course of her career in Italy, Rula worked with several television stations, including Rai 1, Rai 2 and Rai News 24, and she produced a documentary that aired on Channel 7 about the international moratorium against the death penalty. Since moving to the United States in 2008, Rula has been an on-air foreign policy analyst for MSNBC, CNN, Bloomberg and HBO. Her articles have appeared in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Newsweek, The Nation and other foreign policy magazines.
Rula was born in Haifa and grew up in an orphanage in East Jerusalem. She was a recipient of a scholarship granted by the Italian government to attend Bologna University, where her passion for investigative journalism led her to contribute to newspapers such as Il Resto del Carlino, Il Giorno, La Nazione and Il Messaggero. The combination of her passion, commitment, and knowledge of the political history of the Middle East led to her first job as an on-air reporter, soon becoming the first foreign anchorwoman to broadcast the evening news in the history of Italian television.
In 2009, she produced and hosted a TV show in Cairo for Egyptian television where she conducted hard talk one-onone interviews with various players in Egypt’s “Arab Spring,” which included members of the Egyptian regime, dissidents, critics and intellectuals such as Lebanese author Elias Khoury, Finance Minister Youssef Boutros-Ghali, and Minister of Trade and Industry Rashid Mohamed Rashid. The show was widely acclaimed as the most independent in the history of Egyptian television. However, despite successful ratings, the questions asked were seen as a challenge and affront to the Mubarak regime, which forced it off the air after one season.
Fluent in Italian, English, and Arabic, Rula has produced and hosted multiple television shows, in Europe and the Middle East, and she has interviewed global leaders such as Silvio Berlusconi, Massimo D’Alema, president of the Italian Parliament Lamberto Dini, French Minister of Foreign Affairs Bernard Kouchner, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Bill Gates, and Nobel Prize-winner Mohamed ElBaradei. In 2005, at the crest of the wave of terrorist attacks in Europe, Rula interviewed former Prime Minister Berlusconi, who admitted during the interview that he opposed the Iraq War. This famous interview corrected the public misperceptions that Italy was part of the coalition that led the invasion.
Rula’s most recent book, Divieto di soggiorno (Permission to Survive but not to Thrive), addresses the plight of marginalized minorities in Europe, the consequence of years of governmental policies of exclusion, and how this has paved the way for radicalization and the rise of ultra-nationalist, populist movements.
Jebreal has received multiple awards for her work, including the Media Watch award for her courageous coverage of the Iraq War and her challenging of the false claims of WMDs. In 2005, she received the prestigious Ischia Prize for her groundbreaking
For this issue of Wolftracks, Rula kindly granted Harry Greiner (AUR’s Head of Communication and Marketing) an interview that briefly explains her relationship with Rome and with AUR.
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Q&A H: Why AUR?
citizenship and leadership. This is why
connects readers across the globe so
The American University of Rome and
that they can empathize, learn and relate
R:. Rome is home for me. I lived here,
I chose each other. We are building the
with others.
my career was launched from here
next generation of leaders, and I am
and I still have strong roots in Europe.
honored to be part of the process.
My multiple identities - the Middle
Global Citizen. What does this mean
Eastern one, the European one and
H: You’ve talked about your journalistic
the American one – were welcomed
work as being an act of service… can
by the team of AUR. I was incredibly
you elaborate on that?
inspired by the vibrancy of their ideas
R: Theresa May in fact said that global
service. Reading books changed my life, it
diversity that is front and center at The
opened windows in my brain and it made
American University of Rome. After
me travel across the world. From books, I
the two talks I gave at AUR, it was
learned about the history of nations that
clear from the feedback by students
fought hard and consistently to elevate
and professors, that the battle of ideas
the human race. Books saved my life
taking place in the world was brilliantly
while I was living at the orphanage: they
represented and debated daily at this
were my only window to the world. They
university. AUR is not a local university.
inspired me to become a writer. Now,
It is a global, international educational
I hope that my books and the stories of
institution
students
female struggles and aspirations, about
into the XXI century, as models of
which I write, can become a bridge that
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History has proven her wrong because,
are living in a “We historical period that is undergoing the biggest crisis of democracy since WWII.
“
R: Anything you do in life is entirely about
and above all, by the celebration of
projects
to you?
citizens are citizens from nowhere.
and the trajectory of their thinking,
that
H: I’ve heard you refer to yourself as a
percentage of the world population identifies
themselves
with
global
citizenship. The British Royal family have
German
ancestry,
President
Trump’s mother is an immigrant and his wife is an immigrant. It all comes down to a coded discourse that is about race. White immigrants are called expats while, black and brown immigrants are called migrants and viewed as a threat. Clearly, it’s a coded language that boils down to race, not to immigration. You can be born in Syria, live in Silicon Valley, and have a son who created the most successful tech company history has seen (Steve Jobs). Or you can refuse to be part of the globalized world and build walls, deciding to live in a “village” that looks inward and becomes provincial. If you want to interact with international markets and systems, if you want to be relevant diplomatically, and even of you want to create treaties and develop trade with other countries, you must acknowledge things from a global perspective. I’ve seen it is common to accuse writers of using their ethnicity or skin tone as the main motivation behind their work. I, on the other hand, have always felt that I am a global citizen. Whatever reality you are born in, you have the responsibility to absorb it, learn from
“areThings always considered impossible until we actually make them happen.
“
guess what? I think an enormous
to be the woman and the professional
contribute to moving that arch of
that I am today. I always felt that it was
history in the right direction. AUR has
my obligation to give back and extend
a wonderful reputation, and this project
that same opportunity to others. The
can go beyond academics and position
scholarship was my ticket to freedom,
AUR uniquely: we aim at highlighting
and the bridge that I am walking today,
the importance of integrity though
together with AUR, will connect worlds
the formation of global citizens and
through this initiative. So, I am honored
global leaders whose ideas are rooted
and humbled to be part of this initiative.
in internationalism, human rights and
This project started with Dalya Abu-
the safeguarding of truth. If we can
Aker, who comes from a refugee camp
contribute to the lives of four, five, ten,
in Palestine. Dalya is just the beginning.
or twenty young people from war zones, we are certainly making a difference.
H: You believe, then, that one person
Some of these kids will return to their
can have impact…
home countries and build it up from the ashes left by these wars and conflicts.
R: Yes, absolutely. One person can
It takes only a few people to start a
trigger a chain reaction of change
revolution, and it takes only one to
by inspiring young people around
begin to change the world.
the world, giving them the tools to understand their potential, and to
the rest of the world, but also give back in some way. What defines us as human Because there is only one race: the human race. H: Can you talk a little about your initiative with AUR that aims at finding scholarships for refugee and displaced persons from areas of conflict? R: This is our flagship development
We have the moral obligation to “ liberate minds, unleash potential and build the next generation; thus ensuring that the arc of history always bends towards justice.
“
beings are our actions, not our ethnicity.
program. I was personally saved by a scholarship that gave me an opportunity
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NEW FEATURE Going forward, each edition of WolfTracks will feature a short write-up on a ‘hidden gem’ of Rome’s culinary or night-time scene. We start this feature with the beautiful and laid-back Etablì at Vicolo delle Vacche, 9, 00186 Rome. If there’s a place that holds special memories for you that you’d like to see featured here please let us know just drop an email to alumni@aur.edu.
Etablì in Rome’s Historic Center
S
ituated in the heart of the historic center, in a typical
Etablì offers a wide variety of eats – from a typical coffee bar with
Renaissance-era building on a characteristically
muffins, quiches, and coffee to full lunch and dinner menus
winding street off of Piazza Navona, sits the
complete with fish, meat, vegetarian and vegan alternatives,
restaurant and winebar Etablì. With its sociable staff and
and homemade desserts. Using typical Roman recipes, as well
master mixologists, Etablì attracts a diverse mix of locals and
as international plates, accompanied by innovative touches,
international visitors looking for brunch, lunch, dinner, or
their chef serves to satisfy all tastes. The bar boasts a brimming
simply an aperitivo, live music, or an art exhibition.
collection of wines and spirits and the expert barmen, masters in mixology, are willing to satisfy most cravings.
The dining rooms are furnished with plush leather sofas and armchairs in the cooler months, complete with a cozy fireplace.
*10% discount with your AUR ID card*
And in the heat of the Roman summer, the sofas are swapped +39 06 97616694
out for refined country-chic tables, chairs and air conditioning.
info@etabli.it
Cacio e Pepe, with a twist
Negroni
Tonnarelli pasta with pecorino cheese, black pepper, lemon and mint
Equal parts gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari, garnished with an orange peel.
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om London to Was
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*photo taken by Rosi Mosca-Herrera (Communication, 2008)
D
ana Phelps graduated Cum Laude from AUR in
communities, I will be able to draw conclusions on my research
2008 with departmental honors in Art History
questions. It is basically a lot of independent work that requires
and a concentration in Archaeology. She went
much diligence!
on to receive an MA in Cultural Heritage Studies from UCL in London before working for UNESCO, The Butrint Foundation,
What do you do in your free time, when you have it - do you have
Gjirokastra Conservation & Development Organization, and as
any interesting hobbies or off-the-wall passions?
a contractor for the U.S. Agency for International Development in Washington, D.C. She is currently working on her PhD
There is a lot of burning out involved within the course of
in Anthropology at Stanford University, where she also has
the PhD. So, much of my free time is spent recovering! I am
worked for the Stanford Program on Human Rights.
fortunate to have a couple of hobbies that do not demand much of me in terms of planning, and are sort of basic necessities in
Would you tell us a little about your research?
life as well. One of them is my life long passion for cooking. I spend a couple of hours each night, and sometimes more, in
My research looks at the impact of conflicting Europeanization
the kitchen. I’m lucky to have a husband with a good appetite
and Islamicization processes in Albania through the lens
who enjoys being my most loyal customer! I also am a runner.
of cultural heritage: within museums, through memorials,
Currently I am training for a half marathon in Santa Barbara
and through historic restorations. I examine how competing
before leaving for Albania. The running really helps burning up
heritage and cultural development projects such as mosque
any pent up stress from the program, and it also helps provide
constructions and Ottoman-period restorations funded
mental clarity I find.
by Turkey, opening of communist-era sites, and UNESCO initiatives create tensions in Albania. For example, how do these
Stonehenge – constructed by aliens or Merlin? used for burials or
projects impact religious communities and religious extremism
celestial observatory?
in Albania, given its multi-religious society? How does Albanian society react to the controversial opening of communist-era
I love this question. I cannot give you a definitive answer as
sites? Or how do strengthened ties between Albania and Turkey
prehistoric archaeology is not my expertise. However, my
impact its international relations with Greece, the E.U., the
archaeological “hunch” (if there is even such a thing), is that it
Vatican, the U.S., and other key international players?
originally was used for celestial observation. I also completely refute contemporary explanations that archaeological sites for
You will soon be in Albania for your dissertation fieldwork plus
which we do not have conclusions yet were built by aliens,
both a Fulbright scholarship and a Title VIII State Department
such as the pyramids at Giza. I know sometimes it is hard for
fellowship you were recently awarded. Congratulations! What does
us to imagine that we are not necessarily more advanced than
your 15-month long research trip have in store?
the peoples of the past, but I stand by the fact that we still have much to learn from the past-- And that there is no given that the
Thank you! It’s sure to be a great adventure. Much of my
future equals cultural advancement!
15-month research trip will be decided for me, while in the field, depending on what leads I get and which direction
Atlantis – did it exist? If so, where?
my data takes me. The first six months I will be in Albania’s capital, Tirana. Here I will be setting the stage for my research
If I take a one-dimensional point of view, I would say no. But
through interviews with key NGOs, government agencies,
belief has driven many archaeologists to ask different questions,
and academics. During this period, I will be on the Title VIII
leading to many great discoveries. I do have a fascination with
fellowship, which offers me intensive language training. I will
Atlantis, and I want to say that the stories are grounded in some
spend about 10 hours a week in private Albanian lessons.
sort of reality. As far as to its exact whereabouts, we would have
After the first six months, I begin my nine-month Fulbright
to ask Plato!
scholarship. At this point, I will dive deeper into my two field sites, the cultural capitals of Shkodra (in the north)
Lastly, and most importantly (while at the same time least
and Gjirokastra (in the south). Both sites are very different
relevant): Bigfoot – real?
politically, socially, culturally, materially, and religiously. Through intensive ethnographic fieldwork at each site over
While I don’t think Bigfoot is real, every time I drive through
the course of nine months, which will include oral histories,
the Redwoods and up into Oregon I contemplate it, and I also
mapping of heritage sites and initiatives, and observation of the
have my eyes open. So, it seems I like to keep the mystery alive!
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Philopateer Dimitri Recent graduate Philopateer Dimitri (Business Administration, 2015) has wasted no time before plunging himself into the working world of commercial real estate with Jones Lang LaSalle.
“I
started working for Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), a
I came across JLL first through a friend that works there, I was
financial and professional services firm which
instantly interested in the company and its services since it is a
specializes in commercial real estate, but still
Fortune 500 company. Then, I applied through LinkedIn and
offers the same professional services for residential real estate,
asked my friend there to boost me with a recommendation to
offices, and hotels. JLL also offers investment management
the HR department, and 4 weeks later I was on my way to work.
services. It has almost 230 offices worldwide, serving local, AUR definitely prepared me for such a role. Throughout my
regional, and global real estate needs in 80 countries.
experience at AUR, I was lucky enough to have top notch I am a Retail Analyst at JLL. I consult, advise, and lease for
professors, who have influenced me and prepared me to take on
top notch local and regional clients. However, due to the
such a position: Prof. Fitzsimmons, Prof. Pollon, Prof. Luzon,
current workload, I have not yet taken on any multinational
and Prof. Sonnabend.
corporations. …I do use some of the main concepts discussed in my business I consult and advise on what the project should entail, whether
classes, such as conducting a SWOT analysis, a PESTLE
it’s a mall, a retail strip, or a commercial plaza, in terms of
analysis, and applying new leasing strategies. Not only that, but
the tenant mix (brands within the development), financial
you know how we used to hate presentations at AUR? Yeah they
projections, footfall, catchment analysis, expenditure trends,
have certainly helped shape my confidence and presentation
demographic analysis, etc. Often, I conduct research within JLL
skills today. I do lots and lots of those, but the difference is you
through our various worldwide offices, asking UK, Singapore,
present to the Board of Directors of your client, to your client,
or the Turkey offices for case studies on similar projects to the
and even in the weekly staff meetings, where formatting and
one I am working on.
aesthetics become 10x more important.
Usually, what follows is contacting the retail groups in the
In a nutshell, AUR has helped shape my experience in multiple
Middle East (Zara, Mango, H&M, Starbucks, Carolina Herrera,
ways, not only theoretically, but also socially. I am able to carry
Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Hamley’s, Debenhams, just to name
on a conversation with anyone and anywhere around the globe,
a few I have worked with), and arranging a meeting to present
literally.”
their proposed location within the layout of the development plan, and later follow up from there.
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Katharine Labauve With a degree in Art History and a concentration in the Business of Art from The American University of Rome, Katie branched out of the arts and dove head first into management with Matrix Consulting. Next up? An MBA from Emory’s Goizueta Business School.
“
After graduating from AUR in 2010, I made the
to Emory University’s Goizueta Business School Evening
difficult decision to leave Italy and return to the United
MBA program, and started classes last August. Juggling full-
States. I was offered a position in the management
time work, school and family won’t be easy, but I’m up for the
and business administration of a small IT company, Matrix
challenge, and hopeful that the experience will be fulfilling and
Consulting, that provides software development services to the
worthwhile, both professionally and personally. From my days
US government. During my five years with Matrix, I’ve had
at AUR, my heart has remained in Italy and it’s my goal to return
the unique opportunity to experience first hand the realities of
and open my own business; I’m hopeful that an MBA is my next
managing a small business, where leaders are required to possess
step in making that dream a reality!”
skills ranging form HR to Finance to Contract Management. Having enjoyed such challenges, I decided to pursue an MBA to expand my business knowledge. I was recently accepted
Monika Pedersen After her commencement in May 2015, Communication graduate Monika Pedersen submitted her Capstone project, a short film entitled Figlia di (The Daughter of), to Roma Cinema DOC, a monthly film festival based in Italy featuring short films and web series. Her film was submitted in the July 2015 Selection in both the Italian Short Film and Student Film categories. Figlia di analyzes the theme of fame and how those related to fame can often lose their identity. Fascinated by this phenomenon, and being aware of how common it is, Monika decided to explore it through the eyes of a young woman who is expected to follow in the footsteps of her father, a renowned pianist, despite her own aspirations. Monika not only wrote and directed the film, but also has a cameo role. Up next? Since last September, Monika is pursuing an MFA in Film Directing/Production at UCLA.
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ALEXA CAESAR, FROM AUR TO FAO International Relations graduate, Alexa Caesar, stopped by AUR in April 2016 on a trip to Rome. Currently based in Juba, Alexa works for FAO where she interned while a student. “I took my internship very seriously,” she says of her experience. Alexa is considering pursuing a Master’s degree - maybe we’ll see her back at AUR for the MA in Food Studies!
FRANZISKA HARRISON IN D.C. Recent International Relations & Global Politics graduate Franziska Harrison (December 2015) is interning at the Austrian Cultural Forum in Washington, D.C. where she helps organize events for the Austrian embassy. She and her team recently hosted an exhibition by artists Andrew Mezvinsky and Erich Lessing for which she assisted with advertising and social media marketing, utilizing her minor in Communication and sparking interest in a career in business. Of her experience, she shares, “… the Austrian Cultural Forum, a separate institution from the Austrian Embassy, is an integral part of a system comprised of sectors including economics, finance and politics. We are a very close community… It was very important for me to feel at home in D.C. and my coworkers, who welcomed me with open arms, made that possible.”
IN MEMORIAM OF MEHTAB DERE Mehtab Dere, AUR Alumnus and friend, passed away last October. While a student at AUR, he initiated the first delegation of AUR’s Model UN Club and graduated Valedictorian of his class in International Relations in 2007. AUR has dedicated a page on its alumni blog to Mehtab: www.aur.edu/alumni/2016/02/15/mehtab-dere-in-memoriam/ If you would like to contribute to the page with photos, your memories of Mehtab, or a tribute in his honor, please write to alumni@aur.edu.
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AUR’s first ever recipient of the David T. Colin Alumni Award for Distinguished Service, Bliss Holloway (IR, ‘04), discusses AUR, Professor Walston, and giving back.
B L I S S H O L LOWAY and the International Relations program at AUR seemed like a perfect fit for my international background and my current ambitions. Why do you think Professor Walston was dedicated to AUR for so long? Professor Walston was a true teacher and an incredible academic mind. His devotion to AUR stemmed from his relationships with the students, his love of Italy, and Rome in particular, and
“
I consider my time at AUR to be the formative period of my adult life. My entire trajectory shifted from the moment I applied to go to school here
B
an unflappable drive to be a force for good in the world. He liss Holloway attended The American University of
had a very strong belief that he could contribute to students’
Rome from 2001 to 2004 when he graduated Cum
world views through teaching and through practical exposure
Laude and with departmental honors with a BA in
to the political realities of any given situation. I believe that he
International Relations. While at AUR, he connected with late
found a perfect confluence of inspirations at AUR, in that he
IR Professor James Walston and maintained that relationship
could incorporate his work-study trips into a rigorous academic
until his passing in 2014. Bliss continues to support both AUR
program and truly teach people about politics and the world.
and the IRGP department and will be honored for his dedication and service at this year’s Annual Rome Alumni Reunion with
Describe your relationship with AUR and Prof. Walston since
the David T. Colin Alumni Award for Distinguished Service. He
graduating in 2004.
currently works as a Cinematographer and lives with his wife I consider my time at AUR to be the formative period of my adult
and son in Seattle, Washington.
life. My entire trajectory shifted from the moment I applied to go to school here, and through the teachers, staff and students I
Why did you choose to study at AUR?
spent my time with, I created the foundation for everything I am I came to AUR as a second semester sophomore, having spent
pursuing in life today. Professor Walston was an amazing teacher,
a year each at 2 different colleges in the US, as well as 2 years
a mentor, and a very dear friend. We stayed in close contact
outside of any formal education system since graduating from
through the years since I graduated, and always found time to
High School. I was in Rome studying Italian for a 3-month stint
meet up, wherever in the world our paths might cross.
when I discovered that there was an American University here which would accept my class credits from my previous schools,
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Did Prof. Walston know you pursued cinematography? If so, how was he supportive? Professor Walston is actually responsible for the first documentary I ever shot! I can’t say it was a very good one, but he was definitely supportive. A year after my graduation from AUR, he and I went on a scouting trip to Kosovo to see if we might be able to bring a group of students there on a workstudy trip. This was in 2005, so things were still a lot “dicier” than they are now. I was already taking film classes at the Scuola di Cinema in Monti, and when the opportunity arose, I grabbed my camera and we set off without much of a plan, and only a few local contacts. I documented the whole trip, sometimes rolling my camera in secret during meetings with UN officials, and upon like a great moment to look back and ensure that others will
our return I put together a short documentary that he used for a
have access to the same opportunities we did. I hope to be a lot
student introduction to the current situation in Kosovo.
more involved with AUR in the coming years, and so far I have received enthusiastic responses from everyone from faculty to
What is your fondest memory of Prof. Walston?
administration to board members. Everyone sees the benefit for Alumni involvement. It’s up to us to do our side of the work.
My most memorable experience of Professor Walston centers around the Ghana field trip study we structured together in
What would you say to other Alumni who have given and are
2004. I had been through many classes and traveled to a lot of
thinking of giving back to AUR? Why now?
places that were part of his curriculum. In Ghana, I was able to show him around. For me it was a very grown-up feeling,
As a small University, AUR will always rely on Alumni and
because suddenly here was a place that was familiar and
other interested parties to achieve the very best it can. We
comfortable to me, and I could finally contribute to opening up
don’t have endowments or support from large organizations
a piece of the world to him.
and corporations. AUR thrives because the faculty believe it is an exceptional place to educate students, because it provides
What made you and your family foundation, The Seabury
a unique opportunity, and because the students care about
Foundation, decide to give to AUR in memory of Prof. Walston?
exploring the world. Every bit counts, whether we give to the Walston fund or participate in another annual pledge. This
The Seabury Foundation has always been geared towards
institution has a lot to offer the world, and with everyone’s help,
giving grants in the realm of education. When AUR decided
it can continue to provide that exceptional experience to many
to create a scholarship fund in memory of Professor Walston,
more generations.
I immediately wanted to help make that initiative viable. The study trips were an integral part of my education, and they were a huge part of his vision for the broad-reaching curriculum of the IR program. Making those trips accessible to students who might otherwise not be able to participate seemed to me like an ideal way to honor Professor Walston’s legacy. Are you involved in other ways at the University? If so, how? At this point, I am actively pursuing ways to get more involved with AUR. I believe that the Alumni core of this University feels very strongly about their educational experience. Now that many of us are a few years removed from our time here, it feels
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4TH ANNUAL ROME ALUMNI REUNION
David Colin Jr.
Megan & David Silva
Gala Dinner
Alumni Reconnect
David Colin Jr. admires a portrait of his father, AUR’s founder David T. Colin
Siblings Megan (studied at AUR in 2011) and David Silva (Business Administration, 2009)
Alumni, Faculty and AUR staff admire a photo reel of historic AUR images
Noelle Demers, Elizabeth La Posta, Fabio Evola and Mara Nisdeo
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To those of you who made it along to AUR’s 4th Annual Rome
Service which was awarded to the ever-so-deserving Bliss
Alumni Reunion in May, thank you - it was a blast, a real joy
Holloway (International Relations, 2004) for his continued
to see so many old faces (not like crabby and saggy ‘old’, you
support and dedication to his alma mater. It was conferred by
understand, wiser, prettier and familiar ‘old’)!
David Colin Jr., the AUR founder’s son and, in return and as a mark of respect to the original David Colin, AUR presented
For those of you who couldn’t make it – you missed a treat.
David Jr. with a portrait of his father painted by the amazingly
Alumni from the years of ‘97 through ‘15 were in attendance,
talented AUR Fine Arts student, Andrea Cazares.
and we were even joined by some of our freshest, newest and most supple Graduate School alumni (kudos on the dancing,
We wish we could hold a reunion every week, but we’re not sure
guys), proud holders of their M.A. in Sustainable Cultural
that Professor Gwynne’s dancing shoes would last the pace. As
Heritage.
it is, we’re already over-excited about the 5th Annual Reunion
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of
that will be held on May 25, 2017. Start booking your flights and
the inaugural David T. Colin Alumni Award for Distinguished
marking your calendar!
Lindsey Hook & Wolfie
Alumni, Faculty & Staff
David Colin Jr. &Bliss
Sarah, Blake & Lauren
Current Business Administration student Lindsey Hook, who DJ-ed the evening, with Wolfie
The AUR Community gathers with alumni
Bliss Holloway (IR, 2004) accepts the inaugural David T. Colin Alumni Award
Sarah Bertisch (2015) with M.A. graduates Blake Cantrell and Lauren Coughlin (2016)
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CLASS OF 2016 COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES Another grand AUR graduation ceremony takes place at Villa Aurelia Over sixty graduates, including AUR’s first ever M.A. graduates
AUR’s largest class to date celebrated
This year, the works of two very different
their graduation ceremony this May in
individuals were celebrated through
the breathtaking gardens of nearby Villa
the awarding of honorary degrees.
Aurelia, atop the Gianicolo hill.
WWII British Army veteran and active political campaigner, Harry Shindler,
Families and friends of the graduating
and Italian entrepreneur - creator and
class of 59 undergraduates, plus AUR’s
founder of Eataly - Oscar Farinetti.
first three M.A. graduates filled the Villa’s grounds for a celebratory evening that truly reflected the breadth and diversity of the AUR community. Class speaker and Art History major, Laura Estrada Prada, was eloquent in to help liberate Italy during WWII. He
her praise for both her fellow students
is responsible for many monuments
and their professors. Her valedictory
to fallen soldiers as well as an active
speech was moving and impassioned.
campaigner for the voting rights of British expatriates.
Harry Shindler - veteran of the 8th Army’s
North
African
campaign,
the landings at Anzio in 1944, the liberation of Rome and the subsequent Italian campaign - was honored for his relentless work helping the families of his fallen comrades to find their graves, thus keeping the memory alive of the British servicemen who fought and died
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Graduates’ areas of studies included Archaeology & Classics, Art History, Business Administration, Communication, Fine Arts, Film & Digital Media, Interdisciplinary Studies, International Relations & Global Politics and Italian Studies, as well as three Masters’ in Sustainable Cultural Heritage. Graduates will be going on to pursue Masters’ degrees in Cultural Heritage from UCL, MSc in Business Administration from IE Business School in Madrid, MSc in Agricultural Economics from the University of London, Masters’ in Human Development and Food Security from Roma Tre, as well as a postgraduate certificate from ARCA and a PhD from the University of Southampton. Speaking to her peers, “the awesome, highly intelligent, and beautiful Class of 2016,” Laura Estrada Prada showed gratitude for having met them and shared in the experience of having “... learned in English, loved in Italian, and to have lived in so many other languages.” She continued, “Now it is time to embrace the world, to grow up... [and to] welcome the challenges that life has to offer with the certainty that what we have learned here, inside and outside of the classroom, has made us better intellectuals, superior professionals, and more sensible people.” Heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2016, from the entire AUR community! And welcome to AUR’s growing and thriving family of alumni!
Mr. Farinetti was recognized for his entrepreneurial vision and innovative business approach while successfully taking Italian excellence in food and wine around the world. Founded in Turin, Italy in 2004, Eataly has become the
largest,
multi-purpose
Italian
marketplace in the world with posts in Germany, Denmark, Turkey, the USA, the United Arab Emirates, Japan and Brazil.
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KYLA FULLENWIDER B R I N G S S TA R T- U P THINKING TO AUR At AUR, we have always prided ourselves on the entrepreneurial spirit of our students, they (and you) are ‘the few’ - those who have chosen to step outside their comfort zones and explore new facets of life, interact with new cultures and experience new ways of thinking. They (and you) are the adventurers, the dreamers – and this spirit is reflected in the variety and novelty of the life paths taken after graduation. This year, for the first time, we were given the opportunity to
D-Relief: a modern disaster relief service made to alert and
really stretch and showcase this entrepreneurial spirit through
mobilize millennials in emergency situations
an intensive, bespoke short-program titled ‘Discover, Ideate,
Donna Works: and exclusive women-only networking platform
Create: The Social Approach to Entrepreneurship’ designed and
designed to connect skilled Italian women with potential employers
delivered by the amazing Kyla Fullenwider.
Solar Safe: a portable solar battery designed for use in community emergency e.g. earthquakes which are embedded at locations
Kyla Fullenwider is an entrepreneur, educator, and social
through Italy and discoverable via online (mobile) mapping.
designer. Faculty in the Products of Design department at the School of Visual Arts and in the Design Leadership MBA
“I was thrilled with the outcomes of the students—they were so
program at Johns Hopkins and the Maryland Institute of Art,
engaged and committed to the work” stated Kyla “After this course
Kyla was also, until very recently, a Presidential Innovation
I feel incredibly optimistic about how entrepreneurial education
Fellow for President Barack Obama. This highly-competitive
can be transformative in equipping students about to embark on
program pairs talented, diverse technologists and innovators
their careers for the first time. “
with top civil-servants and change-makers working at the highest levels of the federal government to tackle some
The whole experience elicited a fantastic response from the
America’s biggest challenges.
students involved:
However, October of 2016 saw Kyla taking a break from sorting
I found the course one of the best I’ve taken in college. Tiffany
out some of the world’s problems (and running her various
I learned so much about how to approach creating a start-up,
enterprises) to host an intensive 48-hour boot camp with 12 of
as well as techniques for conducting research, how to work with
AUR’s best and brightest students.
people I don’t know, and how fun it can be to present ideas that you have worked so hard to come up with. Caitlin
The focus of this ‘start-up weekend’ was to explore and apply entrepreneurial principles and methodologies to the creation of
LOVED the course, I think it was really helpful and inspiring, and
products and services that would solve real-world problems. The
provided me with a lot of great tools and resources - especially since
results, after two days of fast-paced, collaborative, team-work
I’m always trying to make my company/project grow. Lindsay
(fueled by caffeine, acqua naturale and sheer determination) were some outstanding products that included
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PARE NTS’ WE E KE N D This year’s Parents’ Weekend was a huge success once again! The second edition brought together the AUR community with visiting parents once more. The two day event started off with a tinge of Italian tradition: a welcome aperitivo held at the AUR garden. Later that evening, parents, students, staff and faculty gathered at the Barnabite Theatre near campus for a taste of America. Turkey was carved, gravy was served, and pumpkin pie topped off the scrumptious meal that accompanied the homely atmosphere of our Thanksgiving dinner away from the US. The next day, AUR took participating families to the Banfi winery for a tour, an amazing lunch and a peaceful walk through the vineyards.
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GI VI N G BA C K Throughout life we are all confronted by crossroads; choices of direction to take, paths to follow, new roads to explore. However, far too many of us, upon reaching these crossroads, find that our paths are blocked, our choices limited. The oldest American degree granting institution in Italy, The American University of Rome (AUR) sits atop the Gianicolo overlooking Rome, the ultimate personification of crossroads, where both historically and contemporarily culture, politics, art and thought have discovered new paths. Our students, drawn to us from all corners of the globe, are consistently challenged to continue this tradition. The American University of Rome’s mission is to unblock paths and liberate choice for as many people as possible, regardless of background or barrier. You can help us to achieve this.
REFUGEE AND DISPLACED PERSONS SCHOLARSHIP The American University of Rome is seeking sponsors to grant a number of scholarships aimed particularly at the most vulnerable: young minds who endure severe limitation of their life choices because of violence and conflict in their home countries. Scholarships will be awarded on the basis of merit and need with individual students selected who demonstrate their ability to adapt and prosper in a progressive, challenging cultural and academic environment. The scholarships will cover full undergraduate tuition and associated fees plus accommodation, board, learning resources, health insurance, transportation, wellness support and personal expenses. Recipients will be supported throughout their time with us by a team of professionals dedicated to their success. The amount sought is $40,000 per student per year. Young individuals from conflict countries face many barriers to accessing higher education, including a lack of information, advice, and individual guidance sensitive to their specific needs. However, the transformative power of education cannot be over emphasized; education is the biggest factor in helping to break intergenerational poverty and drive economic growth. Investing in young minds creates a ripple effect that yields multiple benefits, not only for the individual student, but for families, communities and countries. Refugee and displaced persons stand at the crossroads. Together we can offer them choices, together we can help clear their paths.
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NOUR, FIRAS & MOHAMAD:
FROM SYRI A , TO LEBANO N, TO ITALY “It sounds like a cliché, I know, but arriving in Rome felt like a dream had come true.” Mohamad, 22. Many of the new international students at AUR seem overwhelmed during their first days in the Eternal City. For Mohamad and his two fellow nationals, Nour and Firas, the sense of bewilderment is both more evident and more understandable as, just one month previously, each had been living rootless lives in Lebanon, having been forced to abandon their homes in Syria due to war. “Lebanon was a haven but it is very, very difficult there. There are many Syrians who have fled the war, work is scarce and poorly paid. Everyone is looking for an opportunity to live their life, follow their dreams and be ‘normal’. We were just the lucky ones.” states Nour, 20, “Now, we have a chance.” Mohamad, Nour and Firas have received full scholarships to study at The American University of Rome, funding arranged through the relentless drive of visiting professor, Rula Jebreal. The AUR campaign for the Scholarships for Refugee and Displaced People, championed by Ms. Jebreal, is a merit and needs based scholarship fund designed specifically to help individuals who have suffered great hardship due to war or natural catastrophe. Students are chosen based on their academic capability and their dedication to individual progress, often in the face of overwhelming odds. “We are fully committed to developing further scholarship opportunities for those who need help most” stated Dr. Richard Hodges, President of the University, “It is a privilege to have such students as part of our community, they enrich us through their culture and their experiences. We hope to repay them through the opportunities that an American education can bring.” In just one month, Mohamad, Nour and Firas, applied to the scholarship program and changed countries. “Less than one month passed from hearing the news that we were coming, to actually setting foot on the ground in Rome.” Firas tells us, “A short time to say goodbye to families and friends and to embark on a new life.” “I had to leave my girlfriend behind. We are still together but I have no idea of when I’ll be able to see her again.” adds Mohamad. Yet these three young people are full of enthusiasm, gratitude and an obvious joy in facing the challenges of a new country and new culture; “I think that learning Italian will be the hardest part of the change, but I’m ready to do it.” says Nour “I know I’ve only been here one week but I have fallen in love with Italy and with the Italians. People here seem to respect and show interest in others cultures, other backgrounds – it’s only been a very short time but already, I don’t feel like an outsider anymore.” And for the future? “Let me come a little closer to finishing my studies then I’ll tell you what I might do next,” says Mohamad. “Perhaps, if the situation is better by then, I could return to Damascus – I don’t know if that is a possibility but if my time here gives me the chance to help my country and my people, I will.”
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The James Walston Fund The James Walston Fund honors the memory of the late Professor James Walston who inspired generations of students to go out and change the world. The Fund supports field study trips for AUR’s International Relations and Global Politics students.
L
aunched in May 2014 in
& Global Politics field trips. With
honor of the late Professor
this grant, AUR can now extend this
James Walston, The James
opportunity to students that would not
Walston Fund supports International
otherwise have had the funding.
Relations & Global Politics students attending the department’s regular field
Through this fund, James Walston
trips to explore the reality of the subject.
will be remembered as the driving
Previous trips have been to Turkey,
force behind AUR’s IRGP department
Kosovo, Ghana, and Geneva where
and its continued emphasis on taking
students see firsthand how international
its students out of their comfort
organizations work, as well as observe
zones and introducing them to other
and experience the cultural, political,
worlds while challenging them to
and economic context of various
think comprehensively and critically.
colonies and countries.
Having taught at AUR for 25 years, Walston’s legacy remains through the
In 2015, with the help of alumnus Bliss
IRGP department’s new Director Irene
Holloway, AUR secured a $20,000
Caratelli’s dedication to her students
grant from the Seabury Foundation in
and support and encouragement of
support of these International Relations
IRGP alumni working in the field across the globe.
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WOLF CUBS Match the AUR alum/na to their baby photo
Jessica Lagomarsino
Mike Botula
Francesca Zivny
Business Administration, 2013 Images 1 & 5
Communication, 2004 Images 4 & 6
International Relations & Global Politics, 2014 Images 3 & 8
Evelyn Hill
Daniel Yeatman
Archaeology & Classics, 2015 Images 2 & 10
Film & Digital Media, 2013 Images 7 & 9
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4
1
8
5
9
2 6
7 3
10 - 29 -
Out and about in Monteverde Vecchio HOMEBAKED
Homebaked, an American-style bakery and cafe just down the road from AUR, is the go-to spot for your American coffee, pancakes, and grilled cheese sandwiches with jam on top (seriously, it’s been ordered). You can even get a sandwich named after yourself if three separate people order it ... Homebaked, or Grandma’s What do you just hate the Kitchen, serves as a home- most? away-from-home for both Carolina: Bananas. AUR students and Italians alike.
Owners
and If Hollywood made a movie and about your life, whom would welcoming to all while making you like to see play the lead role Carolina
are
Jesse
warm
each visitor feel like family. as you? They answer a few very Jesse: Frank Sinatra. important questions below. How many donuts are you capable of eating in one sitting? Jesse: At least a dozen. What is your favorite cookie? Carolina: Chocolate chip.
If you could be anyone else, who would you be? Carolina: My husband. A penguin walks through the door right now with a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?
What would we find in your fridge right now?
Jesse: He’s from Antartica
Jesse: Bacon.
and he’s studying at AUR and wants pancakces.
What do you think cats dream about?
Homebaked is located at
Carolina: Eating bacon.
Via Fratelli Bonnet, 21. Tel. 338 137 1344.
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MEET THE BOARD: AUR’S TRUSTEES ARE KEEN TO CONNECT WITH ALUMNI The annual full board meeting of the AUR Trustees was held in Rome at the end of September 2016. Over the course of the week the Board met many members of the AUR community but expressed their desire to meet with more Alumni as often as possible. Joseph Lonardo
Neil Boyden Tanner, Esq.
Anthony J. Manganiello
Mary Boyden Teagarden
‘who’s who’ of the members.
Robert B. Murphy, Esq.
Debra Tornaben
OFFICERS
Suzanne F. Nicholson
Gregory Varallo
Over the coming twelve months we hope to promote various meetings with members of the AUR Board. Here’s a
Beth Pfannl
TRUSTEES EMERITUS
Gabriel A. Battista, Chair Jonathan Pollack Andrew F. Palmieri, Deputy Chair Robert J. Krapf, Esq., Secretary
Leila Gonzalez-Sullivan Francesco Profumo Hon. Dominic R. Massaro, J.D., LL.D.
Ed Schwarz TRUSTEES Robert E. Carlucci Mark Damato Elizabeth Dibble Thomas Duesterberg Antonio Giordano Martha Lynn Girard Joseph Gulino Patricia de Stacy Harrison Dale A. LeMasters
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The American University of Rome Via Pietro Roselli 4 00153 Rome, Italy +39 06 5833 0992 www.aur.edu alumni@aur.edu