Marking his first official visit to the University of California, Berkeley, Consul General Massimo encountered a vibrant intellectual community in which Italian talent and creativity are unmistakably present across disciplines and generations at one of the world’s most renowned centers of learning and innovation.
The visit highlighted the depth and dynamism of the long-standing partnership between Italy and the United States in higher education, research, and technological advancement. From foundational scholarship to frontier innovation, Italian scholars continue to leave an indelible mark on Berkeley’s academic landscape, testimony to a transatlantic dialogue rooted in excellence, curiosity, and shared ambition.
The Consul General expressed his sincere appreciation to Provost Benjamin Hermalin and Ashley P. Spinelli for a substantive and forward-looking exchange that reaffirmed the mutual commitment to strengthening institutional ties. He also conveyed heartfelt thanks to Professor Alberto Sangiovanni-Vincentelli and his distinguished team for presenting pioneering work in frontier technologies. In particular, he praised the contributions of Pierluigi Nuzzo and Giuseppe Loianno, whose research exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence that defines Italian scientific leadership abroad.
Warm appreciation was likewise extended to the colleagues of the Department of Italian Studies – Diego Pirillo, Annamaria Bellezza, and Cristina Farronato – for their steadfast dedication to advancing Italian language, culture, and intellectual exchange within one of America’s most distinguished academic institutions.
The Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco looks ahead with renewed determination and excitement in working with the premier public university just across the Bay Bridge.
