EMP-11

Ruthellyn Musil and her husband, Ron, are still assisting the academic world. A article described them as "two of the John Felice Rome Center's most enthusiastic advocates. With both their time and treasures, the Musils help to ensure not only that more students have the opportunity to study at the JFRC, but also that those students have a vibrant experience while in Rome."

The Musils state, "We believe providence played a key role in connecting us to this treasure (JFRC) that we believe is the premier study-abroad program among U.S. universities." Ruthellyn also says: "Our connection to the JFRC is multi-faceted. Ron's Italian heritage and our interest in the food and wine of Italy have motivated us to purchase a home in Tuscany. As a member of Loyola's Board of Trustees, it was natural to want to learn more about the JFRC. Last spring, we met the JFRC's charismatic leaders, Emilio Iodice and Susana Cavallo, along with its long-serving leadership team, truly the backbone of the center. A special privilege was an introduction to Kate Felice, whose husband John had the vision and the dedication to create the center that is now named in his honor. This introduction to the JFRC — our personal example of 'providence'— has resulted in actions that we hope will inspire others.

"As strong believers in 'living the life,' we wanted to help organize the JFRC's Tuscan Experience this fall. From learning the history of early Etruscan settlers to picking olives and pressing oil to touring the ancient hill towns of Castellina, Radda, and Volpaia, 22 students enjoyed experiences seldom available to the average visitor, all led by local Italians. Finally, the launch of Loyola's capital campaign has presented an opportunity for us to create a lasting gift to the JFRC. Our endowment will support scholarships and stipends for experiential learning at the JFRC and give students who would otherwise not be able to study abroad the opportunity of a lifetime."

Ruthellyn Musil stood out in our EMP-11 class as a person who would make a valuable contribution to this world and it looks like she is doing just that. Way to go Ruthellyn!

Remember, this is your chance to keep everyone in our class posted as to what's happening in your life. Get a hold of me, please. Have a great summer.