I loved my time at John Cabot University for so many reasons. I loved that I got to live in the most beautiful city in the world. I loved that I got to soak up the culture and history every single day. I loved my friends. I loved the interesting classes that I was able to take as a Communications major. But most of all, I loved the international community that I was privileged to be a part of. One way that the student body would really come together as a JCU "family" was by attending or hosting special events and celebrations. Among these events is the Annual President's Gala, a night dedicated to celebrating our esteemed university.
For the past seven years, the gala has been an opportunity for students, parents, alumni, friends, faculty, and trustees to enjoy an evening together in the 5-star Hassler Hotel in celebration of the university's growth and prosperity. I can't think of a better way to spend an evening than joining together with a friendly group of classmates, friends, professors, and board members outside of the classroom. I was fortunate enough to attend the JCU President's Gala five years ago, and I remember to this day the feeling of dressing up and indulging in a delicious three-course meal in one of Rome's most beautiful and historic locations. The Hassler is a charming hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps, a luxurious and decadent symbol of old Rome.
For this year's event, a portion of the funds raised by each ticket will be donated to the JCU scholarship fund, a tradition established by the classes of 2017 and 2018. What a wonderful way for John Cabot University to express its commitment to making its American degree programs in Rome as affordable as possible. Moreover, the annual Distinguished Alumni Award is also presented at the gala each year to recognize the achievements and successes of a JCU graduate. This year's recipient, Elisabetta Fabri, is the President and CEO of Starhotels. She graduated from John Cabot in 1989 with a degree in Business Administration. She was chosen for the award this year due to her demonstration of steady growth, leadership, and excellence in her career.
Alexa Vujaklija (Shearer)
Class of 2015
Communications major
Grew up in the United States, Germany, the Republic of Georgia, Russia, and Bulgaria