An EUI tribute to Vincenzo Schioppa Narrante
Family, friends and colleagues of Vincenzo Schioppa Narrante gathered in the church of the Badia Fiesolana to remember the life of a remarkable man. During a service of speeches and music, the EUI community paid tribute to the late Secretary-General, who passed away on the 24th August 2016 after a serious motorcycle accident .
A distinguished diplomat, Schioppa Narrante arrived at the EUI in March 2016 after a posting as Ambassador to South Africa. EUI President Renaud Dehousse noted that, even during his short term as Secretary-General, Schioppa Narrante’s energy left a distinctive mark on the Institute at a crucial time in its history.
Yet most of all, speakers recalled the energy of a kind and humble man, who lived a thousand lives and shaped a thousand more. His warmth and humility, which former researcher Emmanuel De Groof said ‘made no distinction between age or position,’ endeared him to many. ‘The persons who miss you most may be those you would least expect,’ said De Groof.
Other members of the EUI community honoured Schioppa Narrante’s memory through music. PhD researcher Daniela Alaattinoglu recalled how he introduced her to Neapolitan jazz, and had generously sent her two albums which she now cherishes. The EUI choir also sang an arrangement of Agnus Dei by Scarlatti, a composer from Schioppa Narrante’s native Napoli.
The sudden death of Vincenzo Schioppa Narrante was a great loss for Florence, the EUI, and all those who had the privilege to know him. Our thoughts remain with his family.
