By Stephanie Le, Staff Writer
Students will have the opportunity to travel next semester as Dr. Cheryl Golden, Professor of Ancient History and Director of Study Abroad, is planning to take a small group of 10 to 12 Newman faculty, staff, and students to Rome. Golden and NU’s History department has organized the trip for spring break in 2020.
“Why Rome? My field of study is Ancient Rome, so I like the social and political history of Rome. It’s a good way to connect with the culture and heritage of our university too,” Golden said.
Golden says that the group will be staying with the sponsoring religious order in Rome, which is the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC). By having the ASCs host the group in Rome, it will help to keep costs down; however, space is limited in their house.
Golden says the Adorers’ house offers twin rooms with private baths and is located two blocks from the Roman Colosseum and one block from San Clemente Basilica, the oldest Christian Church in Rome and home to an archaeological dig.
The itinerary is still being prepared by Golden and the ASC sisters. Not only will the group travel to Rome, but also to Acuto, which is the mountain town associated with Saint Maria DeMattias’ original mission, Golden said.
If possible, Golden would like the group to visit Assisi because it is a beautiful and peaceful mountain town. As the group will be travelling through Italy, Golden plans for everyone to explore the Vatican, the Colosseum, and “the rich history and spirituality of the ASCs and the eternal city.”
The group will visit Vatican City, which includes St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museum. They will also visit other historic, religious and cultural sites.
For those interested in going to Rome, it is best to contact Dr. Golden before Thanksgiving.
Golden said the airfare from Wichita to Rome costs approximately $1,400. If students plan about $2,300 to $2,500 for the trip, then everything should be covered with some to spare.
“Why go to Rome? It’s a great way to focus on culture and experience. It’s a great way to really meet people you otherwise wouldn’t meet,” Golden said.
PHOTO: Courtesy Photo. fodors.com
