USI Medals 2026

During the 30th Dies academicus, Università della Svizzera italiana awarded the USI Medal to Pietro Balestra, Aurelio Galfetti, and Eddo Rigotti, three individuals who have profoundly shaped the history and development of the University. Introduced in 2023 by the University Council, this honour is bestowed as a mark of gratitude to those who have distinguished themselves through their "significant contribution to the development of Università della Svizzera italiana".

Two of the medals were awarded in memoriam to Pietro Balestra and Aurelio Galfetti, while the recognition given to Eddo Rigotti highlights his fundamental role in the growth of USI.

Pietro Balestra (1935–2023) was an economist of international standing, one of the University's founding fathers, and the first Dean of the Faculty of Economics. Following his doctorate at Stanford, he taught at various European universities, making a decisive contribution to the development of econometrics. Alongside his scientific work, he was an esteemed lecturer and a cornerstone for generations of students and colleagues. USI awarded him the medal in memoriam for his role as the first Dean of the Faculty of Economics and for his vital contribution to the University's growth.

Aurelio Galfetti (1936–2021), the first Director of the Academy of Architecture, was a central figure in contemporary Swiss architecture. A master of his craft, capable of uniting design rigour with poetic sensitivity, his works engage in a profound dialogue with the landscape and the community. As one of the Academy's founders, alongside Mario Botta, he trained generations of architects, imparting a critical and conscious perspective on the art of building. The USI Medal was awarded to him in memoriam for his role as the Academy of Architecture's first Director and for the lasting impression he left on the institution.

Eddo Rigotti, a linguist and scholar of argumentation, was the first Dean of the Faculty of Communication Sciences (now the Faculty of Communication, Culture and Society). From the University's inception, he helped define a broad, interdisciplinary vision of communication, integrating business, humanities, and technology. Throughout his career at USI, including his time as Director of the Institute of Argumentation, Linguistics and Semiotics, he promoted a strong openness to scientific dialogue and international collaboration, leaving a significant legacy in research and teaching.

With these awards, USI pays tribute to three individuals who, through their diverse roles and paths, contributed decisively to building and consolidating the University's identity, leaving a legacy that continues to live on within its faculties, its students, and the wider academic community.