On November 8-11, 2015 the ISI Florence Consortium of Public Universities gathered at Palazzo Rucellai for their annual meeting. Representatives of all member institutions were present:  Arizona State University, University of Connecticut, Pennsylvania State University, University of Virginia, the University of Melbourne, and ISI Florence.  Over two days the group discussed varied components of the ISI Florence study abroad program.  Topics covered included expanding consortium membership, curriculum, internships, housing, program pricing, enrollment, and related matters. Members also visited Palazzo Bargagli to see the extensive and beautiful renovations to classroom and study space, as well as the art and architecture studios; some visited student housing as well.  The meeting was declared highly productive and highly enjoyable, even if it meant missing the papal blessing in Florence!

By Adrienne Ward (Associate Professor of Italian, University of Virginia)