Engaging the World for Life: Alumni Connect Through Distinctly Dickinson Trips
Taking Dickinson wherever we go: The Dickinson group gathers for a photo in Dubrovnik.
A look at this summer's Alumni Global Adventures
Dickinson’s Alumni Global Adventures are exactly as they sound—they’re trips for Dickinsonians and friends of the college who love to learn and explore the world together. These small-group adventures include tours by local guides and in-depth talks with Dickinson experts about the places, people and cultures afoot.
We've led two such adventures this summer, with more in the works. And the rave reviews are pouring in.
"People love the educational aspect of our trips, and they often say it's so nice to meet other alums from across the decades," says Laura Wills, senior associate director of alumni engagement. "They also tell us that it's easy to meet new people this way, because of the common interests and alma mater they share."
Culinary artisans: Flavors of Bologna
Senior Lecturer in Italian Luca Trazzi tasted “the boot” with Dickinsonians during the Flavors of Bologna & Central Italy tour, May 18-28. The trip included a visit to a wine cellar in a seventh-century castle, a meal at a world-renowned restaurant, a cheese-making demonstration and trips to a fifth-generation balsamic vinegar facility in Moderna and a traditional market in Bologna.
“One of the best ways to heighten appreciation of Italy is through food studies, the critical examination of food, which includes the evolution of its procurement, production, consumption and cultural meanings,” says Trazzi, who holds degrees in foreign languages, linguistics and food studies and serves as the college’s current food studies chairperson and teaches its gateway course. At each stop, Dickinsonians were invited to chat with the artisans who created regional treats.
Fairytale views: Slovenia, Croatia and the Dalmation Coast
The history behind fairytale-like and sun-soaked destinations—including three UNESCO World Heritage sites—was the focus of this summer's second trip. Slovenia and Croatia: An Adventure of History and Beauty was held May 28 to June 8.
This adventure was led by Professor of History Karl Qualls, an expert on Eastern Europe. Dickinsonians had much to drink in as they visited Lake Bled, Slovenian and Croatian wineries, Diocletian’s Palace and Brac and learned about architecture of Ljubljana and the ancient wonders of Dubrovnik, among other sites.
Tom and Nancy Eshelman, both of the class of 1970, are veterans of National Geographic and World Affairs Council trips. This summer's trip to Slovenia and Croatia marked their first Alumni Global Adventure. "We could not have been more satisfied with every aspect of the trip. The itinerary was very well constructed, the lodgings were excellent and the meals were very good," Tom says, adding that they especially appreciate the holistic and comprehensive educational program Qualls created for the trip.
Inspired yet?
What will your next global adventure be? These are our next trips:
- Sept. 3-12: Scotland Through Writers’ Eyes Hiking Adventure with Thomas Reed, professor emeritus of English (one double room still available)
- April 3-10, 2024: The Great North American Total Solar Eclipse in Mazatlan, Mexico, with Windsor Morgan, professor of physics & astronomy (two rooms still available)
- May 20-June 1, 2024: Ancient Greece—Oracles & Theatres, Myths & Legends with Marc Mastrangelo, professor of classics
- July 18-27, 2024: Alaska Up Close: Prince William Sound to the Kenai Peninsula with Jorden Hayes, assistant professor of earth sciences (brochure coming soon!)
Inspired yet? Here's where you can learn more about Dickinson’s Alumni Global Adventures. Let the adventures begin!
TAKE THE NEXT STEPS
Published July 20, 2023