Gabriella Ganugi

Gabriella Ganugi has a doctorate in Architecture, is a Certified Professional Chef and is the founder of Palazzi Florence Association for International Education, the academic consortium of higher learning institutions in the historic center of Florence, Italy, which includes Apicius. She specializes in the teaching of the history of food and regional cooking and has lectured extensively and cultivated relationships with hospitality schools all over the world. She is a member of the International Association of Culinary Professionals and the author of several books on Italian regional cuisine. Creator of Ganzo, the culmination of cultural crossovers, culinary innovation, an open space for artistic events, and where the student, Florentine and international communities can mingle in a creative environment. Always a dynamic presence, Gabriella’s creativity and administrative efforts in making Apicius the only structure of its kind in Italy are evident in the experiences of the students, a motivated staff, and the strong international vision of the institution. She is the recipient of the 2010 AIAE Association of Italian American Educators “Eduator of the Year” award as well as a special award from the Florence Chamber of Commerce for extraordinary female entrepreneurs. Her memoir, published by Ugo Mursia Editore in Italy, recounts the story of a young Tuscan girl who grows up to make an impact on international education.