The Ferrucci Institute for Italian Experience and Research presents:
Space and Culture: An Italian Perspective

Saturday, March 15, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Reception to follow. 

Join us for a thought-provoking celebration of the Italian contribution to the exploration and engineering of space, viewed in its scientific and humanistic dimensions, featuring panels and
talks with astronauts, artists, and leaders in the sector.

A portion of the ticket sales will support the Italian Studies program.

10:00 - 10:10 a.m.
Opening Remarks
Federico Pacchioni, Director of the Ferrucci Institute
Emanuele Amendola, Director of the Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Los Angeles
Cinzia Zuffada, President of Italian Scientists & Scholars in North America Foundation
 
10:10 - 10:30 a.m.
“Living in Orbit, Italian Experiences”
A Presentation by Dr. Justin Walsh, Space Archeologist
 
10:30 - 11:00 a.m.
“Wonder is the Destination” 
A Talk by Artist Lia Halloran, Chair of Chapman’s Art Department
 
11:00 - 11:10 a.m.
Intermission 
 
11:10 - 11:50 a.m.
“The Engineering of Space: Italy’s Contribution.” 
A Panel Moderated by Dr. Thomas Piechota, Dean of the School of Engineering featuring:
Fabio Bressan, Vice President at Persico
Jonathan Lunine, Chief Scientist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Agostino Neri, Program Manager at the European Space Agency
Nicola Pecile, Pilot at Virgin Galactic
 
11:50 a.m - 12:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Federico Pacchioni
 
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Reception with Light Refreshments
Mezzanine Level