Tuscany and the United States have long enjoyed a unique relationship, and continuing that tradition, the Tuscan American Association, which was created to deepen and broaden ties and mutual understanding, offers an exciting calendar of events for international students and all those interested in Tuscan and American culture.
The fun kicks of on September 23, at 5:30pm. at Palazzo Vecchio, with the annual Welcome Day and award ceremony in the historic Salone dei Cinquecento. The event, now in its 30th year, is a way to give a warm welcome to the hundreds of U.S. and international university students studying in Florence and Tuscany and to encourage them to become ‘temporary citizens’. A reception immediately following the ceremony is a great opportunity for students from the many programs to meet.
This year’s event includes two presentations about important aspects of Tuscany’s past and present: the first, on restoring Florence’s artworks, is by Simonetta Brandolini d’Adda, founder and president of the Friends of Florence; the other, by professor Vito Cappellini, highlights the evolution of telecommunications from Antonio Meucci to today.
Each year, TAA recognizes Tuscans and Americans in the world of culture, science, art, commerce and sports whose professional activities have contributed to friendship and exchange between the U.S. and Tuscany. This year’s recipients are Ronald P. Spogli, the U.S. ambassador to Italy, and Cristina Acidini Luchinat, director of the Polo Museale Fiorentino.
Everyone is welcome. Since security and seating will be tight at Palazzo Vecchio, you may want to arrive early to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Next on the TAA calendar is Quizme, a trivia competition open to all U.S. university students currently enrolled in study abroad programs. The competition takes place on October 15; information and registration details are available through your program or email The Florentine (info@theflorentine.net). Winners will receive prizes that include a spin in a private plane, a sailboat cruise in the Tuscan sea and a weekend trip to Tuscany’s natural hot springs.
Even though you are studying abroad, you can still participate in the most exciting U.S. presidential race in history. TAA’s Election Night 2008 takes place on Tuesday, November 4 at the Saschall theatre from 6pm to 4am. Stay up all night to experience this historic election via video and live satellite connections on the giant screen. Internet stations will be set up for participants to check out their favorite political news sites, and the stage will be jumping with country music bands, gospel music and more. A midnight lottery will announce the winners of exciting prizes, including a brand new car. During thr wee hours of the morning, as the first exit polls start coming in from the states, enjoy a touch of Italy with doughnuts and cappuccino.
