An Unforgettable Commencement with Rome City Institute

I had the honor of attending the Commencement Ceremony of Rome City Institute—an invitation extended by the Institute’s President, Stefano Radio. It was an inspiring experience, a vivid reminder of the power of education, community, and vision.

As I watched students from all over the world receive their degrees, I was struck by the deep sense of achievement and purpose. These young men and women have not only completed an academic journey—they’ve lived an experience that combined rigorous personal and athletic growth with study, right in the heart of Rome.

Rome City Institute’s mission—uniting education and sport as one transformative path—it is not just a slogan. It’s a philosophy that shapes every student’s experience at the Institute. This unique approach fosters discipline, leadership, and a global mindset—qualities that were evident in every graduate who crossed the stage.

I was particularly moved by the address given by President Stefano Radio. His words were a stirring call to excellence, drawing from the ancient virtues of arete and virtus, and connecting them to the modern-day journeys of the students. “You are not just graduates,” he told them. “You are global citizens. You are changemakers. You are pioneers of a new way forward.” His message resonated deeply with everyone, reminding us that sport is not only a game—it’s a language, a discipline, and a catalyst for leadership and transformation.

Since its founding, Rome City Institute has challenged conventions and expanded the boundaries of what higher education can look like. The ceremony was a testament to that vision brought to life—students united by ambition, resilience, and a shared dream.

The culmination of their journey was a reminder of how powerful institutions like Rome City Institute can take part in the shaping the next generation of leaders.

Here below is an inspiring and motivational snippet from President Sefano Radio’s speech:

“Dear graduates,

Dear families, faculty, colleagues, and friends,

Welcome to this extraordinary day.

Today, we celebrate more than degrees.

We celebrate growth. Effort. Purpose.

We celebrate you.

You came here from different countries.

Different languages.

Different dreams.

But one force brought us together: sport.

Sport is the fire that turned strangers into teammates,

and teammates into family.

Sport taught us discipline.

It taught us to fall.

And rise again—stronger.

But sport did more than shape our bodies.

It shaped leaders.

It taught us to face pressure,

to take responsibility,

to inspire others through action—not words.

Sport is a universal language.

It builds bridges when politics fail.

It creates respect between opponents.

It teaches us to compete,

but with fairness,

and above all—with dignity.

On the field, we learned to lead.

Off the field, we learned to connect.

Sport made us better people.

Together, we built more than muscles.

We built character.”

In a few words, the Commencement Ceremony was a powerful affirmation of what education, sport, and global community can achieve together. Rome City Institute has not only prepared these graduates for their next steps but has also instilled in them the courage to lead with integrity and purpose. As they move forward into the world, they do so not just as alumni, but as ambassadors of a vision that redefines success through character, connection, and contribution. Their future is bright—Congratulations to the Class of 2025.

Silvia Anna Zamarripa, President