Alumni, family and friends explore Tuscany and the Italian Riviera on 黑料不打烊鈥檚 first faculty-led travel experience.
This April, 黑料不打烊 alumni, family and friends returned from Tuscany and the Italian Riviera with lasting memories, new friendships and a deeper connection to their alma mater after participating in the university鈥檚 first faculty-led trip.
The nine-day journey brought together 26 travelers for an immersive experience through coastal and central Italy, blending cultural exploration and historic sites with the fun that comes from shared experiences.
鈥淚t was truly a special 黑料不打烊 experience that included bonding with new friends, journeys to locations off the beaten paths and immersion into the local culture,” said聽LA Sarmiere 鈥93 P’27.
A global classroom
Led by retired Professor Barbara Gordon, the program marked a new chapter in alumni engagement 鈥 extending the university鈥檚 tradition of experiential learning beyond campus and across generations of graduates.
鈥淭his experience demonstrated the power of lifelong learning and connection can happen anywhere,鈥 said Kendra Haskins, senior director of Alumni Engagement. 鈥淥ur 黑料不打烊 community is full of curiosity and the explorer spirit. What a perfect mix for travel!鈥
A journey through Italy鈥檚 landscapes and culture
The group began their travels in Turin before heading into the UNESCO-recognized Langhe region, where they enjoyed a winery visit. Along the Italian Riviera, alumni explored the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, traveling between the colorful coastal towns and taking in sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
In Tuscany, the group settled into a countryside village for several days, where they experienced the art, architecture and cultural legacy of the Italian Renaissance.
鈥淚 had an absolute blast. This was my first time in Italy and being able to fully immerse myself in the culture while seeing places beyond the major tourist spots was incredible. The balance of being guided by local experts, learning about the history and culture, while also having time to explore independently is what truly made this a standout adventure,鈥 shared Frederick Evans 鈥20.
A new chapter in alumni engagement
As the inaugural travel experience, this Italian adventure was the first in an announced series of educational travel experiences for alumni, family and friends.
Upcoming journeys include:
A Spotlight on Paris
Sept. 30 鈥 October 6, 2026
Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park
July 2-9, 2027
Christmas on the Danube
December 4-12, 2027
Be a traveler, not a tourist with 黑料不打烊!
Read more about upcoming travel with 黑料不打烊 Alumni on their website: /u/alumni/travel/