The new trustees bring a wealth of expertise across a range of fields, including technology, business, philanthropy, the arts, and health. Their collective experience will significantly contribute to advancing the university's mission and strategic vision, further strengthening its position as a visionary and progressive center of American higher learning in the heart of Rome.
Kristin Gervasio
Kristin Gervasio joins the Board with a background in strategic consulting and investment management. A graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania (MBA) and Georgetown University (BA), Kristin initially worked in the strategic services practice of a global consulting firm. She then transitioned to the family investment landscape, where she had the opportunity to work on portfolio management and charitable efforts. With a passion for food anthropology, she became certified as an olive oil sommelier in 2019 and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at Yale University.
Kristin’s philanthropic endeavors include her involvement with the New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, The Storefront Academy Charter Schools of Harlem and the South Bronx, and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Her strategic insight and philanthropic dedication will offer a fresh perspective to AUR’s future development.
Mitch Henderson
An alumnus of AUR, Mitch Henderson, the co-CEO of BNP Media, brings a dynamic combination of business leadership and technological innovation to the Board. With degrees in Computer Science, Italian Language and Literature (University of Colorado Boulder), and Business (BBA, The American University of Rome), Mitch has positioned himself at the forefront of AI and behavioral economics, developing cutting-edge applications that drive data-driven solutions for the business world. Mitch also holds an MBA from the University of Michigan, with a focus on financial analysis and product development. His deep technological acumen, paired with his global business experience, will be instrumental in helping AUR shape its strategic initiatives and future growth.
Lauren Jolliffe
Also an alumna of AUR, Lauren Jolliffe has built an impressive career across various industries, including media, biotech, and entertainment. Her global outlook, shaped by her experiences living and conducting business across Europe, South America, China, and the USA, makes her a unique asset to the Board. Lauren is the founder of Storyteller Lane, a production company focused on storytelling through diverse entertainment channels. Her philanthropic work, notably with the Free Wheelchair Mission, has impacted lives globally, earning her recognition on CNN's Be the Change.
Lauren’s passion for storytelling and commitment to global philanthropy will add to the strong humanistic dimension of AUR’s mission.
John Dias
John Dias, co-Director of the New Tamarind Foundation, brings a wealth of experience in the performing arts to AUR. As the former Artistic Director of Two River Theater in New Jersey, John revitalized the institution with innovative programming and educational initiatives. John has produced and directed numerous acclaimed productions on Broadway and in the broader theater community and has worked with institutions such as the NYC Public Theater and Columbia University. His deep connection to the arts and education will enrich AUR’s cultural outreach and the development of creative programs.
On welcoming the new trustees, AUR’s president, Scott Sprenger, remarked, "We are delighted to announce the addition of these four distinguished and highly accomplished individuals to our Board of Trustees. Their exceptional expertise and global perspectives perfectly align with our mission to educate students for the challenges of an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving world. I have every confidence that their insights and leadership will be instrumental in driving the university's future success."