Sally Jackson, Alumni and Communications Officer
Five years ago, St John’s Postgraduate Tutor and native Italian Miro Cafolla had an idea. An idea to enrich the academic and cultural life of St John’s College by teaching Italian to keen learners – all while helping to raise money for College causes.
Since 2019, Miro has run Italian classes every term to a total of around 100 students, staff, alumni and friends. During the Covid pandemic these classes were particularly valued, taking place virtually and providing a Johnian connection while everyone was dispersed across the country. Usually, the classes happen in person, making the most of the state-of-the-art facilities in the LRC – a project for which they initially fundraised.
At the heart of this venture is physics researcher come Italian teacher, Miro, who first arrived in Durham as an undergraduate student in 2012. Miro reflects:
“When I first arrived to the UK I didn’t know anyone and was completely alone. But everyone in College was so friendly and kind that I felt part of a community. It was great to have an opportunity to return some of the support I have always received from the College and the local community by helping people who want to learn Italian and fundraising for St John’s. I give back to St John’s College because it’s one of the most extraordinary communities anyone can find. It’s an honour and a pleasure to be a part of this big family.”
Over the course of the Italian Classes so far, more than £7000 has been raised for various causes at St John’s. Such causes include the LRC (our impressive new library and study facility), ‘Outside @ John’s’ (a project to improve outdoor spaces and seating during covid), the Chapel restoration fund and general donations. St John’s relies on such financial support and generosity to continue offering students the best experience possible. You can find out more about current fundraising priorities on this webpage.
Having established a successful course that raises funds while inspiring learning, Miro encourages everyone to share their expertise and energy in a similar way.
“St John’s is a big family and in every family there are people with different talents and skills, so just put your skills to service of this community and share with others whatever you can do. When you do good, good always comes back to you. This round you help, next round you be helped.”
On behalf of St John’s – Grazie mille Miro!
John's Chronicle 