Welcome Elena Beccalli: The First Female Rector of Milan’s Catholic University of the Sacred Heart
Breaking barriers and paving the way for a new era at the University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Elena Beccalli has been appointed as the first female Rector. Starting on 1 July, she steps into this role following the untimely passing of her predecessor, Franco Anelli, on 23 May. This is a significant milestone in the university’s history, as Beccalli is an alumnus of the institution she is now set to lead from 2024 to 2028.
Selected by the Board of Directors after a meeting on 20 June, Beccalli’s appointment was preceded by her overwhelming support from the University’s 12 Faculty Councils, with an impressive 93% of the vote (636 out of 685 preferences) in her favor on 22 May.
Embracing Change and Innovation
In her acceptance speech, Beccalli emphasized the University’s commitment to being a “universal” academic institution that fosters dialogue, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the creation of strategic alliances. She envisions the University as a forward-thinking hub that tackles contemporary challenges with precision, creativity, and courage. She stressed the importance of innovation rooted in tradition, highlighting the University’s international standing in both teaching and research.
Beccalli’s vision includes positioning the University as a reference center with a strong international outlook, nurturing a culture of excellence and fostering a supportive environment for students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Bridging the Past and Future
Paying homage to the University’s rich history and values, Beccalli aims to ensure that Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore remains a beacon of knowledge for civil society, institutions, and the global Church. She envisions a future where the University’s educational programs reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary learning and adaptability in response to societal transformations and industry demands.
With a background in financial intermediaries and a keen interest in ethics, sustainability, and women’s leadership, Beccalli brings a wealth of experience to her new role. As the ninth Rector of the University, she follows in the footsteps of esteemed predecessors who have shaped the institution over the years.
A Leader in Academia and Beyond
Beccalli’s impressive career spans academia, research, and advocacy in the field of banking and finance. She has held various positions at prestigious institutions such as the London School of Economics, University of St Andrews, and Beijing University, contributing to the global conversation on responsible banking practices and financial regulations.
Her expertise in the banking sector, particularly in technology, efficiency, and financial diversity, aligns with her commitment to ethical practices and inclusivity. Beccalli’s dedication to excellence and her forward-thinking approach make her a fitting choice to lead Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore into a new era of growth and innovation.
As she embarks on this new chapter as Rector, Elena Beccalli embodies the University’s ethos of excellence, compassion, and progress, setting a precedent for aspiring leaders and innovators in academia and beyond.
