Elena was born in Romagna (Emilia Romagna) in the small city of Faenza, famous for ceramics and the world-known “Faiance” ceramics. That is one of the reasons why she loves art and this kind of art in particular, as in her home, pieces of important ceramics have always been around.

She graduated from Bologna University with a degree in foreign languages and literature. The love for foreign languages, and in particular for English and German, led her to choose a career in international environments.

But the reason why Elena came to Florence and stayed is… Love!

Her working background has been in the fashion business (Salvatore Ferragamo, Prada, Liberty of London, Polo Ralph Lauren, etc.)

Both work and pleasure have led Elena to many places like Finland, Germany, UK, New York, and Brazil, just to name a few.

After 25 years in the fashion business, she decided to dedicate more time to the academic and education field and so, in 2009, Elena joined ISI Florence.

Her first concern is to help students with all their needs or requests and contribute to making their experience in Florence and in Italy the most rewarding and pleasant as possible. She especially loves it when students ask for help with the Italian language.

Elena’s suggestion for students:

“Be curious and don’t be shy. Interact with local people as much as possible. Find an Italian friend to talk to… and breathe the whole city especially the Oltrarno area.”