The Consul Corriero’s recent mission to Seattle marked a milestone in strengthening the ties between the Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco and the vibrant Italian community in the Pacific Northwest, about a month after Consul General Massimo Carnelos’ last mission to Washington State. The program was designed to cover key pillars of Italy’s presence: scientific diplomacy, language promotion, citizen outreach, and transatlantic connectivity.
- Science and innovation as a driver
The mission commenced with a networking event at GemaTEG Inc., marking the launch of the new ISSNAF Chapter for Washington and Oregon, created with the support of the Scientific Attaché of the Consulate General, Romeo Beccherelli, and the Honorary Consul of Italy in Seattle, Elisabetta Valentini. Led by Daniele Piazza, this chapter serves as a vital hub for our scientific community. Supported by the Consulate’s Scientific Attaché and the unique expertise of the San Francisco-based INNOVIT hub, this initiative underscores the growing role of Italian researchers in sectors that define the global economy, from AI to clean energy. - Language education: a historic first
A landmark achievement was celebrated at Kennedy Catholic High School in Burien: the launch of the first-ever Italian language course in Washington State. This accomplishment is the result of a coordinated effort involving the Consulate’s Education Office, led by Education Attaché Daniela Mazza, the Honorary Consul Elisabetta Valentini, and the Comites of San Francisco, represented by Comites Counselor Anna Veraldi. The enthusiasm of the students and the dedication of Professor Gabriella Vagnoli and the school leadership, President and Principal Matthew Mohs and Vice Principal of Academics Kristin Kuzmanich, highlight the enduring appeal of the Italian language and its role in building future-proof cultural bridges. Thanks also to Casa Italiana for being the “Ente Gestore” for Italian language courses in Washington State. - Citizen-centric services
The dialogue with the local Italian community held at Casa Italianaunderscored the Consulate General’s commitment to active listening. Building on the successful model of community engagement of the “Open House” event held on March 3rd with the Comites of San Francisco at Italian Community Services, this meeting provided information on consular services and the description of the Comites’ “Sportello di Assistenza ai Connazionali“. By working in close synergy with honorary consular networks and local representatives, we ensure that our support systems remain modern, accessible, and responsive to the real-life needs of our diaspora. - Strategic connectivity
The reception hosted by Alaska Airlines to celebrate the direct Seattle–Rome route, with CEO Ben Minicucci, who has Italian roots, in attendance, was a highlight of the mission. This new connection is a testament to the tireless advocacy of the local Italian-American community and the dedicated support of our Honorary Consul Elisabetta Valentini. By linking Seattle to Rome Fiumicino (a hub recognized globally for its service excellence), we are not just launching a flight; we are creating a permanent channel for tourism, business, and deeper human connections. - Building future academic partnerships
The visit concluded at the University of Washington’s Advanced Composites Center (ACC). Hosted by Director Prof. Marco Salviato, the Deputy Consul explored the Center’s groundbreaking work in sustainable aerospace and data-driven manufacturing. The ACC stands as a premier model for technology transfer and education, offering immense potential for new collaborative ventures between Italy’s industrial leaders and Washington State’s academic excellence.
