In late September 2014, representatives of most of the member institutions of the Florence ISI Consortium (Arizona State University, Pennsylvania State University, University of Connecticut, University of Melbourne, University of Virginia, and the International Studies Institute) held their annual meeting at Palazzo Rucellai (representatives from Arizona State University lost their last minute battle against the forces of Air France, and so were unable to attend).
The two-day meeting had a full agenda, and representatives spent two solid days reviewing curriculum changes, new program ideas and potential alterations to existing programs, program pricing dynamics, enrollment patterns, and general program support matters. Visits were prepared – and taken up – to various venues, including student apartments, dining halls, and classrooms. Discussions were held on expanding the Consortium membership, to bring in other public institutions. The atmosphere was collegial, and progress made on most, if not all, matters discussed. The Consortium’s next meeting will be held, via virtual means, early in 2015.

Kevin Brennan, UConn Study Abroad Director