College of Liberal Arts Alumni, Friends and Donors Trip

Registration closed

This year's alumni, friends and donors trip to Italy is at full capacity and registration is closed.

We are currently planning our next trip in 2028, traveling to Venice, Italy! If you'd like to receive updates on future trips, please sign up here. 

We cannot wait to gather with fellow College of Liberal Arts supporters for an unforgettable Italian adventure in Fall 2026! Hosted by Dean Isabelli, this exclusive journey will take you through charming cities, immerse you in Italy's rich history and culture and delight you with the incredible flavors that make the country so unforgettable. From the rolling hills of Southern Tuscany to the magnificent crypt in Anagni, each destination promises memorable experiences and meaningful connections. More than a trip, this is an intimate celebration of our shared passion for the liberal arts. 

Your registration includes not only the full travel experience but also a meaningful contribution to the College of Liberal Arts, helping advance our mission to elevate humanity through the arts, humanities and social sciences.

Trip Itinerary

view of Rome and river

Day 0: September 30, 2026

Rome

We begin to ease into our shared experience in Rome with a relaxed and welcoming “day 0” at Hotel Chapter Roma. Guests may enjoy an optional cooking class/dinner with Dean Isabelli or time to settle in, unwind and connect before the journey begins in earnest.

view of rustic buildings with vines on balconies

Day 1: October 1, 2026

Rome to Southern Tuscany

  • Morning: Meet in the lobby of Hotel Chapter Roma for a talk by Dr. Dennis Dworkin on Jewish Italy, followed by a guided walking tour of Rome’s Jewish Quarter with a local expert, including a visit to the Synagogue. 
  • Afternoon:  We will have a group lunch at Il Fantino in the Jewish Quarter of Rome, followed by a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive from Rome to Montepulciano. 
  • Evening: We will settle into Borgo San Vincenzo in Montepulciano, followed by an aperitivo on the pool patio where Dennis gives a talk on “La Dolce Vita.” The evening concludes with a traditional Tuscan BBQ dinner. 
wine barrels in brick storage room

Day 2: October 2, 2026

Southern Tuscany

  • Morning: We will have breakfast at Borgo San Vincenzo, then drive approximately 10 minutes into Montepulciano for free time in the town.
  • Afternoon: We continue our exploration of Montepulciano with a guided tour and wine tasting at Cantina De’ Ricci, followed by lunch at Porta di Bacco.
  • Evening: Enjoy free time to either stay in town or head back to Borgo San Vincenzo, with dinner on your own. 
person setting pizza on table with another pizza next to it

Day 3: October 3, 2026

Southern Tuscany

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast on the property, followed by an olive oil class and tasting led by a local olive oil expert.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxed lunch is on your own following a short walk over to the winery tour and tasting at Boscarelli.
  • Evening: Gather for a relaxed, organic group dinner in the gardens of Borgo San Vincenzo. 
medieval town on a mountain

Day 4: October 4, 2026

Southern Tuscany to Lazio

  • Morning: Enjoy a cappuccino and have a bite to eat before we depart from the Borgo San Vincenzo. We will make a two-and-a-half-hour transfer to Piglio. Spend a couple of hours on your own touring the charming town’s annual wine festival.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in Piglio’s acclaimed local vintages at its annual wine festival in Piglio, while immersing yourself in local culture and sampling a variety of street food.
  • Evening: Check in to the Ambasciatori Place Hotel and enjoy an evening on your own to explore the elegant spa town known for its restorative waters and alpine air. 
view of anagni crypt with colors ceilings

Day 5: October 5, 2026

Lazio

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then meet Dr. Ned Schoolman in the lobby for a short drive to Anagni. Tour the Cathedral, Crypt and museum with his guided commentary. Afterwards, enjoy some time on your own to explore the historic town.
  • Afternoon: Experience an authentic lunch dining at a local restaurant in Anagni.
  • Evening: Spend the evening independently exploring Ambasciatori Place Hotel and enjoy an evening exploring neighboring towns and experiences. 
painting of medieval village, Fumone, Italy

Day 6: October 6, 2026

Lazio to Rome

  • Morning: Start the morning with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, then complete check-out. From there, begin a scenic transfer toward Fumone and spend a couple of hours exploring this hilltop village.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a group lunch at La Taverna del Barone, a family-style restaurant in Fumone.
  • Evening: Wrap up the journey with a just-over-an-hour transfer back to Rome Termini Station, with staff assisting at departure. 

Connect with us

Do you have questions or want additional information? Please contact Shelayne Hammack, Director of Outreach and Engagement, for inquiries.

Email Shelayne

Additional information