Syracuse Sun

The Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University is set to offer an executive educational tourism experience titled "Discover Florence: A Gastronomic and Cultural Odyssey" during the summer of 2025. The program, scheduled from June 26 to July 4, invites participation from university students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.

Patrick Penfield, a professor of supply chain practice and director of executive education at Whitman, emphasized the school's commitment to experiential learning. "The Whitman School has long valued the importance of experiential learning outside the classroom for students, and now we are excited to venture into the area of edu-tourism for faculty, alumni and others in our Orange family too," he stated.

Participants will engage with various aspects of Florentine culture. "Not only will participants learn firsthand about food, wine, art and culture," Penfield noted, "but they’ll also see some of the business concepts behind them as they meet award-winning chefs and restaurateurs, vineyard owners, government officials and alumni in related fields."

The nine-day itinerary includes a welcome reception featuring insights from faculty associated with the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Syracuse University Program in Florence. Additionally, attendees will have the chance to hear from Dario Nardella, who serves as European Union Parliament minister of food and agriculture.

Activities planned for this trip encompass visits to vineyards such as Castello di Verrazzano and Petra; culinary experiences through cooking classes; tours of landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery; exploration of Renaissance art; dining at Michelin-star restaurants Osteria di Passignana and Atto Divito Mollica; excursions to olive groves; visits to local markets; and leisure time for personal exploration.

Accommodation is provided at Hotel L’Oronologio in central Florence. Costs are $9,600 for single occupancy or $12,600 for double occupancy. Travel arrangements to Florence are not included in these fees. Interested individuals must register by March 20, 2025.