KSU expands to Italy

First permanent education site of Kennesaw State University in Montepuliciano, Italy

Kayla Dungee, Sentinel Contributor

Italy is infamous for its historic sites, fashion, scenery and cuisine. They can now boast about a new landmark – the first permanent education site of Kennesaw State University in Montepuliciano, Italy.

This past June, President Daniel S. Papp was joined by Montepuliciano’s Mayor Rossi in a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of the site, followed by a celebration complete with food and wine tasting. What was once a fortress has been transformed to a floor solely dedicated to the University’s upcoming study abroad programs.

Courses available range from culinary and Italian language, to visual art and theatre. The citizens
of Montepuliciano will also benefit, as common space in the building will be used for cultural programs open to the public. This achievement in international education was solidified through an approval by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and $520,000 in funding.

Located in the south of Tuscany, Montepuliciano is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, exquisite wine and hilly landscape. Lance Askildson, vice provost and Kennesaw State’s chief international officer, believes the relationship between the University and Italy will allow students a once in lifetime experience.

“KSU has been working hand-in-hand with the local town council, community and business leaders for nearly 20 years and we have developed a partnership and rapport with the town and its people that creates an especially compelling, safe and nurturing environment for our students to grow, learn and develop as global citizens,” said Askildson.

Students will no longer have to wait until the summer to experience all Italy has to offer. The 4,000 square foot permanent space at Antica Fortezza Poliziana will allow students to partake in programs held year-round. The first group of students to occupy the 13th century fortress will be first- year KSU students this fall. As part of the “Global Fellows” program, up to 25 freshmen will spend seven weeks of their first semester in Italy, taking general education courses.

[pullquote]“KSU in Tuscany provides opportunities for KSU students to explore not only the Tuscan region, Rome and the whole
of Italy; it also provides a footprint for KSU to offer programs throughout Europe in conjunction with our many international partners there,” said Askildson.[/pullquote]

More specifically, students will also have the opportunity to travel to historic locations as well as get a glimpse into the Tuscan lifestyle with cooking classes and visits to the farms and vineyards of the quaint town. Students prepping for the trip include incoming freshman K’lyn Kline, a psychology major.

“I have decided to be a part of the study abroad in Italy for a number of reasons,” Kline said. “I have never been outside of the country so being able to go to Italy will be amazing. I would get the opportunity to experience a new culture, and it would also allow me to step out of my comfort zone. I am looking forward to [exploring] Italy and neighboring countries in my free time.”