JCU Hosts 50th Anniversary New York Gala
John Cabot University hosted the 50th Anniversary New York Gala on March 28, 2023, at a prestigious New York club. The New York Gala, which takes place annually, is an event honoring those within our community and beyond who have contributed to the University and supported academic initiatives, scholarships, and cultural programs. Over 350 people attended.
New York Gala
This year’s honoree was Rocco B. Commisso, Chairman and CEO of Mediacom Communications Corporation, President of the ACF Fiorentina soccer team, and Chairman of the New York Cosmos soccer team. He was presented with the Frank J. Guarini Medal for Leadership in Business and Sports by the Chair of JCU’s Board of Trustees, Sal Salibello.
Salibello gave a speech highlighting how much of an honor it was for him to be there celebrating not only the outstanding individuals, but the University itself. “We are here together to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of our beloved John Cabot University. On September 19, 1972, John Cabot International College opened the doors to welcome its first class of 31 students. Under the Presidency of John V. Falconieri and thanks to the joint efforts of Paul Frohring and William D. Cavendish, the vision of creating an educational bridge between Italy and the United States became a reality. Today, John Cabot University, located in the heart of Rome’s vibrant Trastevere neighborhood opens its doors to more than 1600 students and includes 3 campuses with 5 buildings,” said Salibello.
The night started with remarks by Trustees and Co-Chairs of the Gala Committee, Vivian Cardia and Stefano Acunto, who welcomed the crowd and introduced prominent individuals in the audience. Alumna Anna Bottinelli, a recipient of the 2022 JCU Distinguished Alumni Award, was introduced by Trustee Frank J. Desiderio, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees. Anna spoke about her time at JCU, where she received her B.A. in Art History graduating magna cum laude in 2010. In 2019, Anna was appointed President of the Monuments Men and Women Foundation.
There were several notable guests that attended the Gala, including: Lidia Bastianich, Italian American chef, author, and restaurateur; best-selling author, director, and entrepreneur Adriana Trigiani; Consul General of Italy in NY Fabrizio Di Michele; alumnus Francesco Ruspoli, Italian banker and President of the JCU Alumni Association; and Chairman of Ferragamo USA Massimo Ferragamo. It was an eventful night that brought together alumni, Trustees, and supporters of John Cabot University.
“This joyous occasion gives us the opportunity to celebrate our many accomplishments during the difficult years of the global pandemic. These accomplishments were made possible through the hard work and dedication of our administration, faculty, and staff. With the guidance and generous support of our Trustees and our vibrant network of friends, John Cabot University continues to thrive and achieve new heights of excellence. The 2023 academic year has reached new record enrollment, with students coming from more than 100 U.S. universities, and over 70 countries,” said JCU President Franco Pavoncello
The evening concluded with the Gala dinner.
