On Tuesday, October 13, the Tuscan American Association (TAA) welcomed all study-abroad students recently arrived in Florence. The event took place in the spectacular Salone dei 500 at the Palazzo Vecchio.
Opening remarks were made by the Robert Shackelford of Harding University and the Association of American College and University Programs in Italy, the Consul General of the United States of America in Florence Abigail M. Rupp, as well as by the co-presidents of the Tuscan American Association, Andrea Davis and Federico Frediani. A dance performance was offered by the Florence Dance Company under the artistic direction of Keith Ferrone and Marga Nativo.
This was followed by the ceremony for the Tuscan American Award, given every year to two recipients, one Tuscan and the other American, who have contributed significantly to further develop the ties of friendship and exchange between the United States and Tuscany. This year’s recipients were Marco Carrai, president of Toscana Aeroporti SpA, for the work done to reinforce the local airport system, which is not only strengthening travel between Tuscany and the United States but the entire local economy, and Joseph S. Sheppard, an American artist, for his contribution as a sculptor and painter residing in Pietrasanta in creating a bridge between the artistic worlds of Tuscany and the United States, among others by numerous works in both places. A special award was given to the Biagiotti Progetto Arte Foundation of Carole and Caterina Biagiotti, for its work promoting young emerging artists and contemporary art in Florence and in the United States.
The evening ended with remarks by Sandro Mencucci, Executive Managing Director of ACF Fiorentina, who will introduce the new Serie A female soccer team Fiorentina Women’s Football Club and a closing number by the Florence Dance Company.
