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Connections

New Rettore Appointed at UWC Adriatic

27 May 2026

UWC Adriatic is delighted to announce the appointment of Marco Gemelli as the College’s new Rettore, starting in August 2026.

Marco will take on this role at a time when the mission of the UWC movement feels more urgent and necessary than ever. In a world marked by division, conflict and polarisation, our shared commitment to making education a force to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future continues to guide the College’s work every day.

With over twenty-five years of experience in UK and international education, Marco brings extensive academic and leadership expertise developed across complex, multicultural educational environments. After graduating in Physics from the University of Bologna, he continued his professional training in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics and later completed a Master’s degree in International Education at Oxford Brookes University. He joins UWC Adriatic after a distinguished career in international education, most recently as Senior Deputy Head at St George’s British International School in Rome. 

Throughout the selection process, Marco distinguished himself for the depth of his experience, the clarity of his educational vision and his strong alignment with the values that define the UWC movement: integrity, intercultural dialogue and a deep belief in the transformative potential of young people.

His vision for education is rooted in the belief that schools should be places where intellectual curiosity, personal responsibility and intercultural understanding can flourish together. These principles strongly resonate with UWC Adriatic’s mission and with the wider values of the UWC movement.

Reflecting on his appointment, Marco said:

«I am deeply honoured and humbled to be appointed as Rettore of UWC Adriatic. For over 40 years the College has transformed the lives of young people from every corner of the world. To be entrusted with the stewardship of such a remarkable community is both a profound privilege and a responsibility I embrace wholeheartedly.

During my recent visit to Duino I was impressed with the strength of student and staff alignment with UWC’s mission to make education a force for peace and a sustainable future. I am eager to join this vibrant community of dedicated professionals and committed and ambitious students, and build on Khalid’s strong legacy with the aim to continue to prepare students to make a meaningful difference in our world.»

A smiling man in a light blue striped shirt stands in front of a lush background covered with small white flowers and green leaves.

UWC Adriatic is confident that Marco will lead the College with balance, openness and vision, honouring the richness of its community while guiding it into a new chapter of its history. We are delighted to welcome him soon to UWC Adriatic and look forward to the next chapter in the life of the College under his leadership.