Are you a busy student or business professional in need of an adventure? Now’s the time to plan a Summer 2025 get away, as the Whitman School of Management hosts an executive education experience, Discover Florence: A Gastronomic and Cultural Odyssey, open to students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the Syracuse University community.

From June 26 through July 4, 2025, the Whitman School will offer the opportunity to sip wine at world-renowned vineyards, enjoy homemade pasta and other Italian delicacies at not one, but two, Michelin-star restaurants, and admire the Renaissance art and architecture of the iconic city of Florence, Italy.

Led by Whitman’s Professor of Supply Chain Practice and Director, Executive Education, Patrick Penfield, this 9-day trip kicks off with a welcome reception that includes insights from faculty based at the Syracuse University Florence campus, as well as a unique opportunity to hear from Dario Nardella, the EU Parliament minister of food and agriculture and former mayor of Florence. This event will allow fellow travelers to network and get to know one another, as they prepare for a slate of activities* that includes:

Visits to Castello di Verrazzano and Petra vineyards

Culinary adventures at a hands-on Florentine cooking class

Stops at iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery

First-hand looks at the work of Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Ghirlandaio

Premier dining at two Michelin-star restaurants, Osteria di Passignana and Atto Divito Mollica

Escapes to ancient olive groves, charming local markets, quaint cafes and more

Free time to explore, shop, relax and take in the beauty of Florence

The cost of the trip includes all of these adventures, along with lodging at the beautiful, 4-star Hotel L’Oronologio in the heart of the city. Based on the maximum enrollment of 20 people, the cost is $9,600 for single occupancy and $12,600 for double occupancy. Transportation to and from Florence is not included in the price, allowing travelers to make their own plans from anywhere in the world.

“The Whitman School if thrilled to offer a unique cultural learning experience that doesn’t involve textbooks or coursework but instead gives our Orange family the opportunity to learn first-hand about food, wine, art, culture and more on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to Florence, Italy,” says Penfield.

Don’t delay. Space is limited, and Florence is waiting for you. For more information or to register, go to https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3qsnxuBfqPzrcCq.