Through a new partnership with Pistoia Basket, a top professional basketball organization in Italy, and the Accademia Europea di Firenze, Elon students will explore the intersection of sport, culture and education.
Elon University has announced a new partnership with the Accademia Europea di Firenze (AEF) and Pistoia Basket, a leading professional basketball organization in Italy. The collaboration unites education, sport and culture – reflecting the shared values of engagement, excellence and global learning among all three institutions.
This partnership strengthens Elon’s commitment to experiential and global education. Students in Elon in Florence, the university’s flagship study abroad program housed at AEF, will have the opportunity to intern with Pistoia Basket and gain insight into team operations, communication strategies and community engagement within a European sports context.
The initiative was developed in close collaboration with Elon’s Department of Sport Management in the School of Communications, which played a central role in its creation. Associate Professor of Sport Management David Bockino, who joined the partnership’s Oct. 13 press conference virtually, later emphasized the program’s experiential approach.
“Students will gain firsthand insight into how global sports organizations operate while living in one of the world’s most vibrant cultural settings,” Bockino said. “This is a unique opportunity to build practical skills, expand professional networks, and experience Italy well beyond the classroom.”
Located in Tuscany, just 40 minutes from Florence by train, Pistoia carries a rich basketball history. The city was once home to a young Kobe Bryant while his father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, played professional basketball there.
“This partnership brings together the best of what Elon, AEF and Pistoia Basket represent –education, culture and community,” said Nick Gozik, dean of global education, who also attended the press conference virtually. “Through sport, we can create powerful global learning opportunities that transcend the classroom.”
He added that this work fits within Elon’s Global Strategic Plan and thus is central to the university’s mission and goals.
Kenn Gaither, dean of the School of Communications, added that international study complements Elon’s emphasis on developing ethical, globally minded communicators.
“Studying abroad broadens a student’s perspective and builds essential skills – cultural fluency, curiosity and empathy – that make them stronger storytellers and communicators,” Gaither said. “We’re excited for our students to experience Italy firsthand and to bring those global insights back to their future studies and careers.”
Both deans, who serve on AEF’s Academic Advisory Council, emphasized that the collaboration aligns with Elon’s strategic goals to integrate global engagement, professional excellence, and experiential learning.
Beyond academics, the partnership aims to foster intercultural exchange and community-based learning through projects and events that connect students with the people of Pistoia. Together, Elon, AEF and Pistoia Basket are exploring new ways for education and athletics to collaborate in creating transformative global experiences.