On October 13th, the celebration of Italian American Heritage Month provided a unique opportunity for Chapman University Italian Studies students to come together with professionals from the Italian American Lawyers of Orange County to reflect on the importance of culture and community. A presentation by Dr. Pacchioni, Italian Studies Program and Ferrucci Institute Director discussed the educational model that led to the creation of the Ferrucci Institute, tracing the evolution of Italian Studies at Chapman and highlighting the manner in which, through the Institute, Italy can be used as a lens to discover new facets of identity and creativity. A selection of Chapman students followed this by sharing their personal experiences and projects as interdisciplinary researchers within the Institute, exemplifying the transformation of Italian heritage into a foundation on which the next generation can continue to build.
