Riotta named first Pirelli Visiting Professor

Riotta named first Pirelli Visiting Professor

Gianni Riotta, an eminent Italian journalist and writer, will serve as the first Pirelli Visiting Professor in Italian Studies in the Department of French and Italian during Spring 2014.  

The five-year visiting professorship was established in partnership with Pirelli, a multinational Italian tire company, and will bring a number of prominent Italian personalities to campus to foster activities in new media and technology.

Riotta, who has twice served as a visiting lecturer on campus, will focus on the impact of new media and social networks in cultural, political and academic contexts.  

"The Pirelli Visiting Professorship in Italian Studies will enhance our deep commitment to using a multidisciplinary approach to explore global culture," said Professor Gaetana Marrone-Puglia, professor of French and Italian and the faculty liaison between Princeton University and Pirelli. "Pirelli's gift will provide a tremendous opportunity for both students and the Department of French and Italian, and we look forward to sponsoring interdisciplinary events on campus."

Pirelli will also contribute a collection of cultural materials for study, including photos, manuscripts, documentaries, advertisements and films.