The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University continues to expand its international educational reach across the world with the opening of a Center in Siracusa, Sicily. The College has announced the establishment of the Arcadia University Mediterranean Center for Arts and Sciences in Siracusa, Sicily, under the leadership of the Center’s Resident Director, Lucia Ortisi.

“Our mission is to teach globally minded students and prepare them for lives of service and leadership in the global economy. To this end, we continue to expand our presence in the world, offering students opportunities to engage with diverse communities, to be inspired by co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, and to learn about the complexities and cultural richness of the world,” says Arcadia University President Carl (Tobey) Oxholm III, who recently traveled to Italy.

The official opening ceremony took place on Thursday, Jan. 26, and was attended by many local dignitaries. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Nicolette Christensen, Vice President for The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University. Christensen underlined the significance of the day, commenting, “The launch of our newest Arcadia center is an excellent example of The College of Global Studies’ strategic vision to provide globally engaging education. The Mediterranean Center for Arts and Sciences provides outstanding educational programming in a critical and historical region of the world.”

The new Center offers semester and summer courses in English and Italian, combined with academic field study. Students can explore the diversity of the region from the perspective of Sicily, an island that has long been at the epicenter of the Mediterranean world since classical times. Courses are offered in Archaeology; Classical Studies; Environmental Studies; History and Political Science; Italian Studies; and Studio and Fine Arts.

Significant opportunities for field study and co-curricular learning are emphasized in these programs. Exploration of historical and cultural sites is built into academic learning in the classroom and includes visits to sites in Noto, Agrigento, Palermo, Taormina, Mt. Etna, as well as a focus on the exceptional flora and fauna of this unique location.

“The Mediterranean Center for Arts and Sciences will play a crucial role in furthering the opportunity for students to learn about a dynamic and unique region in the Mediterranean and become engaged and informed,” says Dr. Dennis Dutschke, Founding Dean of Studies of The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University.

The Arcadia University Mediterranean Center for Arts and Sciences is located in a restored 17th century Palazzo Ardizzone, just 100 feet from the ancient city walls of Siracusa and the Mediterranean Sea. The Center’s palazzo houses teaching facilities, a multi-media facility, a dark room, courtyards where students can gather, a library, and pleasant classroom spaces. Student Services staff support the program of engagement by providing continuous support in extra-curricular programming, housing, student health and well-being.

The College of Global Studies at Arcadia University is known internationally for academically sound and experientially rich study abroad programs. The College offers a wide range of academic programs, including study at top universities and in Arcadia study and research centers around the world, academic certificate programs, a co-curricular learning program and certificate, international internships, and service learning projects—with more than 100 programs in 22 countries.