On June 19–21, 2026, John Cabot University welcomed alumni from around the world back to Rome for an unforgettable reunion. The event was a true homecoming that brought together generations of graduates, rekindled lifelong friendships, and celebrated the enduring spirit of the JCU community.
This year's reunion carried special significance as alumni, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to honor President Franco Pavoncello for more than two decades of visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact on JCU. Throughout his tenure, President Pavoncello has shaped the educational journey of countless students while strengthening the University's international reputation and cultivating a vibrant global alumni network.
Welcoming graduates from the classes of 1976 through 2026, the reunion celebrated five decades of JCU history. Alumni traveled from across the globe to reconnect with classmates, professors, and mentors to share stories, memories, and experiences that bridged generations.
The festivities began on Friday evening with a welcome aperitivo at the Critelli Campus, featuring a tasting of wines from Casale del Giglio winery, provided by alumnus Antonio Santarelli (Class of 1981). The event also featured live guitar music by alumnus Ferdinando Johnston (Class of 2026).
On Saturday, participants gathered at the Guarini Campus for Shaping Tomorrow: JCU Community Lab, a full day of interactive discussions exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on Business and Entrepreneurship, International Affairs, and Economics. The day opened with welcome remarks from Alumni Association President Francesco Ruspoli (Class of 1994), who greeted participants and stressed the importance of alumni engagement in shaping the future of the JCU community. The program also featured two alumni-led sessions, where graduates reflected on the lessons they have learned throughout their careers and discussed the skills that will be most valuable in the decade ahead. Alumni offered professional insights and diverse perspectives on how AI is transforming their industries. The event was a fitting reflection of the intellectual curiosity, innovation, and collaborative spirit that define the JCU experience.
The highlight of the weekend was the elegant apericena in honor of President Pavoncello, held at the Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá. Set against the backdrop of one of Rome's most stunning venues, the evening celebrated President Pavoncello's extraordinary contributions to the University and the lasting legacy of his leadership.
The reunion concluded on Sunday at the Pavoncello Campus with a series of farewell activities. Alumni enjoyed guided campus tours, participated in a creative workshop customizing JCU T-shirts and tote bags an, and gathered one final time for an American-style brunch catered by HomeBaked, founded by alumnus Jesse Smeal (Class of 2003). What made the 2026 alumni reunion truly special was not only the thoughtfully planned events, but also the powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the JCU family. Time and distance may separate alumni, but the friendships, experiences, and shared values forged in Rome continue to unite this community across generations and continents.
Office of Alumni Affairs wishes to thank everyone who attended, shared memories, and helped make the reunion such a success. Your enthusiasm, generosity, and presence transformed the weekend into a joyful celebration of JCU’s past, present, and future.
Because no matter where life leads, all roads truly lead back home to Rome and to JCU!
