Partners in Friendship and USC Aiken Celebrate “A Decade of Partnerships"
Partners in Friendship and USC Aiken recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of the University’s partner city relationship with Orvieto, Italy. The celebration, entitled “A Decade of Partnerships,” took place on Tuesday, Nov. 13 in the Etherredge Center.
The relationship began a decade ago when USC Aiken hosted the first U.S. exhibition of renowned artist Livio Orazio Valentini’s work. Distinguished Chancellor Emeritus Robert E. Alexander invited Valentini to spend a semester on campus as a guest lecturer in 1999. As an effort to honor the campus’ relationship with the talented artist, the University later commissioned Valentini to create “Galassia,” an abstract painting and sculpture, that seeks to impart to its viewers – young people particularly – hopeful messages about the vastness of the universe, and the importance of imagination in exploring our world and surmounting its obstacles and horrors. The artwork is now showcased in the Etherredge Center’s Upper Gallery.
The University’s relationship with Valentini came about as a result of the Sister City Relationship between Aiken and Orvieto, Italy. This relationship is enhanced through Partners in Friendship, an organization founded in 1996 out of a desire to encourage understanding and cooperation (on a variety of cultural, educational and commercial fronts) between the City of Aiken and the Italian city of Orvieto. Early efforts along those lines were so successful that they resulted in the creation of an official partner city relationship endorsed by the mayors of both cities. Since then, PIF has developed into a full-fledged non-profit organization with a large and growing membership. In 1999, PIF extended its reach to Pacific shores by acquiring a second partner, the Australian district called The Shoalhaven.
“We are thrilled to host our guests from the Italian Delegation and the Partners in Friendship organization,” said Chancellor Tom Hallman. “Over the years, PIF has introduced the Aiken community, including USC Aiken, to other cultures, enhancing our sense of international awareness.”
PIF is dedicated to promoting international understanding and cultural appreciation, offering Aiken citizens an opportunity to learn about and establish connections with residents in other parts of the world. The organization provides social experiences by bringing together Aikenites who share an interest in learning more about Italian life and culture. PIF hosts a variety of events and activities, from Italian wine-tasting parties to classes on Italian language and cooking.
With “Galassia” in the background, Chancellor Tom Hallman raises a glass to celebrate PIF’s 10th anniversary. Also pictured (left to right): Dr. Stefano Mocio, Orvieto mayor; Mr. Evasio Gialletti, presidente del consiglio comunale di Orvieto, Mr. George Custodi, PIF president; and The Honorable Fred Cavanaugh, Aiken mayor.
