Alumni, family and friends explore Tuscany and the Italian Riviera on Elon’s first faculty-led travel experience.
This April, Elon University alumni, family and friends returned from Tuscany and the Italian Riviera with lasting memories, new friendships and a deeper connection to their alma mater after participating in the university’s first faculty-led trip.
The nine-day journey brought together 26 travelers for an immersive experience through coastal and central Italy, blending cultural exploration and historic sites with the fun that comes from shared experiences.
“It was truly a special Elon experience that included bonding with new friends, journeys to locations off the beaten paths and immersion into the local culture,” said LA Sarmiere ’93 P’27.
A global classroom
Led by retired Professor Barbara Gordon, the program marked a new chapter in alumni engagement — extending the university’s tradition of experiential learning beyond campus and across generations of graduates.
“This experience demonstrated the power of lifelong learning and connection can happen anywhere,” said Kendra Haskins, senior director of Alumni Engagement. “Our Elon community is full of curiosity and the explorer spirit. What a perfect mix for travel!”
A journey through Italy’s landscapes and culture
The group began their travels in Turin before heading into the UNESCO-recognized Langhe region, where they enjoyed a winery visit. Along the Italian Riviera, alumni explored the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, traveling between the colorful coastal towns and taking in sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
In Tuscany, the group settled into a countryside village for several days, where they experienced the art, architecture and cultural legacy of the Italian Renaissance.
“I had an absolute blast. This was my first time in Italy and being able to fully immerse myself in the culture while seeing places beyond the major tourist spots was incredible. The balance of being guided by local experts, learning about the history and culture, while also having time to explore independently is what truly made this a standout adventure,” shared Frederick Evans ’20.
A new chapter in alumni engagement
As the inaugural travel experience, this Italian adventure was the first in an announced series of educational travel experiences for alumni, family and friends.
Upcoming journeys include:
A Spotlight on Paris
Sept. 30 – October 6, 2026
Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park
July 2-9, 2027
Christmas on the Danube
December 4-12, 2027
Be a traveler, not a tourist with Elon!
Read more about upcoming travel with Elon Alumni on their website: https://www.elon.edu/u/alumni/travel/