This Must Be the Place

The Donor Event is the annual occasion dedicated to expressing gratitude and sharing the achievements made possible by the generosity of the Bocconi community. The 2026 edition, held on June 9, was titled “This Must Be the Place”: an invitation to see Bocconi not only as a physical location, but as a “Place for the Future”—a space where talent, trust, and relationships come together to generate impact.

The evening was hosted by Erika Zancan, Director of Alumni & Fundraising, and featured a dynamic program of personal stories, conversations, artistic contributions, and reflections on the meaning of philanthropy and the role of Donors in creating opportunities for students, research, and the broader community.

The event opened with a reading by Gioele Dix of the letter in which Ferdinando Bocconi announced the founding of the Institute in 1898. The text still conveys today the strength of the founder’s vision and the deeply philanthropic roots of the University.

Following remarks by President Andrea Sironi, one of the most moving moments of the evening was the testimony of Irene Palma, a scholarship recipient, who shared with authenticity the value of the opportunities she has received thanks to the support of Bocconi’s Donors.

Dean for Development and Alumni Relations Antonella Carù then engaged in a conversation with Carlo Bronzini, Bocconi Alumnus and long-standing Donor, exploring the meaning of giving, the bond between Alumni and the University, and the responsibility we share toward future generations. During the evening, the story of Fatima Haidari was also remembered as a powerful example of the transformative impact that access to education can have.

Professor Andrea Beltratti then offered reflections on the value of knowledge and financial education as tools for creating widespread impact, while musical performances by Paolo Alderighi and further contributions from Gioele Dix accompanied the audience through a collective, engaging, and inspiring narrative.

In closing, Rector Francesco Billari highlighted how the support of Donors is a fundamental driver of Bocconi’s ability to continue investing in talent, academic freedom, and the capacity to imagine and shape the future.

To all of you—Alumni, Donors, and Partners—we extend our most sincere thanks. It is through your trust and support that Bocconi can continue creating opportunities and building the future, together.