As a component of FIU’s Global Initiative to internationalize, the challenge for the well-established program in Genoa is to develop a new level of opportunity for FIU students and faculty across disciplines, departments and colleges by furthering our strong relationships with local institutions in academia, government, culture, and industry. In cooperation with our Italian partners the program is expanding its scope to become a nexus of student and faculty interaction in Italy and beyond that advances FIU’s international profile through mutually beneficial engagement with local communities.
Partnering with Local Institutions
University of Genoa
FIU has had a Cooperation Agreement with University of Genoa (UniGe) since 2004, with interactions between the FIU and UniGe departments of Architecture, and FIU Interior Architecture and UniGe Nautical Design (Cruise Ship and Super Yacht design program). FIU is currently expanding its relationship with other UniGe Engineering departments for faculty and student exchange and joint research.
Genoa City Government
Mayor Marco Bucci, with a long background of work in industry in the US, wants to promote a strong US academic presence in Genoa and has met with a number of FIU delegations. FIU is currently working with various city councilors and departments to form strategies to promote FIU and its activities in Genoa and Italy and also to increase awareness of Genoa in Miami.
Cultural Institutions
Among the many significant cultural and artistic institutions in Genoa, including the Musei di Strada Nuova and the Ligurian Academy of Fine Arts (1751), one of the great resources is the Wolfsoniana Collection, compiled by Miami native and longtime Genoa resident Micky Wolfson, Jr. In 2007 Wolfson donated the collection to the Fondazione Colombo, now part of the Fondazione Palazzo Ducale. The Wolfsoniana has its sister collection in Miami, the Wolfsonian, which is now part of Florida International University.
Industry & Business
FIU is seeking development with local industries and businesses that may provide internship opportunities for FIU students. Possible disciplines include hospitality, tourism and event management, management of cultural institutions and curatorial skills, port logistics and supply chain management, engineering and business in the sectors of the cruise industry (Costa Crociere has its headquarters in Genoa), cultural institutions, the port and ship repair industries, and and other local businesses. FIU is working with both the Genoa municipal government and the local Chamber of Commerce to seek out partners, also with business connections in Miami.