BOARD MEMBER INTERVIEW

Stefanie is a former CEO and current Independent Director with a background in international business, corporate law, and finance. She began her career as an attorney and investment banker, later leading her family’s 100-year-old coffee company through a successful turnaround. Today, she manages a family office, serves on corporate boards, and speaks on leadership and family business at institutions like Cornell and Bocconi University.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that you live by?
“An education is something no one can ever take away from you.” Wise words from my grandmother.

Q: What does philantrophy mean to you, and how does it guide your role on the board and beyond?
I am glad you asked. As a Greek, I am proud to share that Philanthropy is a Greek word derived from philos (friend)and anthropos (man, mankind). In Aeschylus 2500-year-old play, Prometheus famously became a philanthropist when he stole fire from Zeus to save humanity. Needless to say, things didn’t work out too well for Prometheus, but the ancient story underscores that Philanthropy means more than giving money; Philanthropy is aimed at improving the human condition.

Q: What Inspired you to Join the board of Friends of Bocconi and how long have you been a board member?
Giving back to education is my way of honoring the transformative impact it had on my life and helping to provide that same opportunity to others.

Q: As Co-Chair of the Friends of Bocconi Gala, what did the success of the 2024 edition reveal to you about the strength and purpose of the Bocconi community?
The vision and drive of Bocconi’s leadership, and, the passion and pride of its alumni came together in perfect form at the 2024 Gala. It was a night to celebrate an exceptional community, unstoppable in its mission to expand its reach through the funding of scholarships.

Q: How do you see the organization growing in the next few years?
Friends of Bocconi had its humble beginnings as a small group of alumni who enjoyed getting together. Today, it is an organization that spans Bocconi’s U.S. community. In the future, I see Friends of Bocconi as a focal point for a much broader community who value Italian culture and education.