Meet The Team

Luca Mercalli coordinates the Scientific Committee of the European University Festival. He is President of the Italian Meteorological Society, founded in 1865, and a member of the European Meteorological Society. He directs the journal Nimbus and serves as a European Climate Pact Ambassador. A climatologist and science communicator with 40 years of experience, he leads the festival’s scientific vision, promoting research, sustainability, and climate awareness in universities worldwide.

Pierangelo Saba is the Founder and Director of Operations of the European University Festival, overseeing its overall strategy, logistics, and institutional partnerships. With extensive expertise in project management, international relations, and finance, he ensures the festival’s growth and success. His leadership fosters global collaboration in research, sustainability, and education, uniting universities and organizations in a shared vision for the future of knowledge.

His Highness Moufid El Rayes leads the International Governmental Relations of the European University Festival. With a distinguished diplomatic and institutional background, he fosters cooperation between governments, institutions, and universities worldwide. His visionary and respected leadership strengthens the festival’s global partnerships and promotes dialogue, peace, and sustainable development through academic diplomacy and cultural understanding.

Luca Carniato is the Artistic Director of the European University Festival, responsible for curating the festival’s vision and programming. He oversees artistic direction, event design, and multimedia experiences, ensuring an engaging and inspiring atmosphere that connects innovation, research, and sustainability through art.

Diego Sarno, Director of Institutional Relations and Public Affairs of the European University Festival, manages institutional, academic, and strategic partnerships. With public sector experience, he strengthens collaborations, promoting the festival as a hub for research, sustainability, and innovation.

Massimiliano Salvetti is Director of Relations with the United Arab Emirates for the European University Festival, where the UAE will be guest nation. With diplomatic vision and strong Middle Eastern ties, he builds partnerships that elevate the festival’s standing and foster exchange between Europe and the Gulf.

Marco Chiricosta is the Director of Partnerships & Brand Strategy at the European University Festival.
He oversees partnerships and brand integration, strengthening the Festival’s global visibility and value for sponsors and audiences through his extensive experience in marketing and international events.

Angelica Brigido is the Business Developer of the European University Festival, leading global partnerships and high-level negotiations. With extensive experience in international business and strategic sales, she drives the festival’s growth, fostering collaborations with leading institutions, brands, and investors worldwide.

​​Elisabetta Viola is the Director of Communications for the European University Festival, where she leads media strategy, public relations, and digital outreach. She is responsible for ensuring coherent and impactful communication, strengthening the festival’s visibility, engagement, and international resonance.

Dario Martinetti leads the digital strategy of the European University Festival, managing the website, SEO, and platforms to enhance global visibility. Working closely with the communication team, he drives technical and strategic innovation to strengthen engagement with universities, researchers, and the public.

Davide Ruga is the Coordinator of Organizational Relations for the European University Festival, managing coordination between institutions, partners, and key stakeholders. He ensures seamless collaboration, efficient event execution, and strong organizational synergy, enhancing the festival’s structure, impact, and international presence.

Valentina Laudionia oversees the food sector of the European University Festival, managing chef selection, culinary experiences, and sustainability initiatives. With experience in major events like the G7, she brings a strategic vision to the intersection of gastronomy, culture, and innovation, fostering dialogue between tradition, research, and the future of food.

Sara Taglialagamba, Head of the Art Academies Section at the European University Festival, is a leading Leonardo da Vinci scholar and professor at the University of Urbino. She curates international art academy projects, fostering dialogue between tradition and innovation. Through her vision, art becomes a key tool for interpreting future challenges, working in synergy with the festival’s other disciplines.