Staff

Ms. Amel Misbah
Teacher - Science, Chemistry 

Ms. Amel Misbah holds an Honours degree in Chemistry, a Master’s in Environment and Sustainability from Western University, and a teaching diploma from the University of Victoria. Over the course of her career, she has taught senior-level Chemistry in Vancouver and abroad, with experience across the A Level, IB, and AP curricula. Her students know her for her ability to connect scientific principles to real-world issues, fostering curiosity and showing how chemistry helps us understand the world around us.

Ms. Amel brings both warmth and intellectual rigour into the classroom, encouraging students to think critically while developing an appreciation for science as a living, evolving discipline. Her international teaching background has given her a deep appreciation for cultural perspectives in education, and she is particularly passionate about bridging science with global sustainability challenges.

Drawn to Italian culture and language, Amel is delighted to be beginning this new chapter in Italy. Beyond teaching, she finds balance through hiking, time in nature, and creative writing—practices that ground her and keep her connected to what truly matters.

Ms. Carmela D’Amato
Teacher

Ms. Carmela D’Amato brings more than three decades of experience in Arts education to CCI. After earning a Fine Arts degree from Concordia University and completing her teacher training at McGill University, she began her career with the York Catholic District School Board, where she taught the Arts for 32 years.

Some of the highlights of her career include organizing student trips to Europe, New York City, and Boston; helping to run one of the few high school Virtual Arts Events during the Covid pandemic; and advising the Student Arts Council for over 25 years, where she supported many successful arts initiatives.

With family roots in the Molise and Abruzzi regions, Carmela has been visiting Lanciano for more than 30 years, and it feels like a natural step for her to now join the CCI team. She is also proud of her two children, both pursuing postgraduate degrees in the health sector—her son in Nursing at the University of Toronto and her daughter in Occupational Therapy at the University of Alberta.

Outside of school, Carmela enjoys road cycling and traveling with her husband, as well as hiking, drawing, painting, and cooking for family and friends. She continues to practice as an artist, focusing on drawing and painting. Her most recent exhibition was with Riot Grrrl (FERA) at the University of Toronto in 2021.

Camila Lioni
Girls’ Residence Don

Ms. Camila Ramos Lioni brings an international perspective and a genuine passion for supporting students. Born in Brazil to an Italian family, she has always felt deeply connected to Italian culture and is excited to continue learning the language while living in Lanciano. Having moved to England for her studies, Camila understands the challenges of adapting to a new country and culture, and she is especially empathetic to students navigating life far from home.

She earned her degree in Accounting Studies at the University of Reading and has extensive experience in hospitality, having worked in hotels and restaurants where she developed strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Camila enjoys creating welcoming environments and supporting students both personally and academically.

Beyond her professional background, Camila is passionate about endurance sports. She has completed an Ironman and continues to embrace endurance training as a way of challenging herself physically and mentally. This dedication, discipline, and perseverance are qualities she also brings to her role, where she is approachable, committed, and always motivated to support others.

Cheryl D’Alessandro
Director of Communications

Cheryl is an enthusiastic believer that poor communication is at the root of many human foibles. 

Cheryl joined CCI in 2021. As CCI’s director of communications, it is her mission to keep CCI’s families, students and staff well-informed and connected to each other — and the world.

A journalist for more than two-decades, Cheryl has a keen curiosity, tenacious organizational skills and an enthusiasm for research and travel.

After earning her Bachelor of Communications at Ryerson University in 2002, Cheryl became an accomplished writer, reporter, social media editor and news producer.

During her 13 years at the CBC, Canada’s national public broadcaster, Cheryl covered major national and international events, including traveling to South Korea for the 2018 Olympic Winter Games in Pyeongchang. During the pandemic, her work keeping Canadians informed won awards and accolades for her and her team.

A mother of two and a proud D’Alessandro by marriage, Cheryl is fiercely devoted to her family. You will often find her pumping iron at the nearest gym in her pursuit as an amateur bodybuilder.

Alessandro Di Giacomo
Chef

Alessandro Di Giacomo is a passionate and inventive chef from Lanciano. After spending ten years in Rimini, Chef Alessandro built his experience in several kitchens, learning the rhythms of restaurant life and exploring different styles of cooking—including a period focused on Argentinian street food. He also spent six months studying at ABU College in the United States, adding an international layer to his journey.

His time at Symparjum—a fine dining restaurant in Piana La Fara—reflects his personal journey and helped shape his refined yet grounded approach to cooking. Chef Alessandro brings energy, care, and creativity to the kitchen, drawing equally from hands-on experience and a deep love for fresh, homegrown ingredients.

His daily motivation comes from his family and a genuine love for what he does. Outside the kitchen, Alessandro holds a degree in Physical Education and a Master’s in Posturology, along with a number of certifications. He stays active through trekking, training, and playing baseball, and enjoys time with his three children, gardening, drawing, and building things by hand.

Daniel Masella
Teacher, Social Sciences

Mr. Daniel Masella is a dedicated and passionate educator with a strong background in fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments. His teaching philosophy is grounded in values of humility, and compassion, allowing him to build strong relationships and a sense of community with his students and the school.

Holding Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Psychology from York University, a Bachelor of Professional Studies from Niagara University, and a certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language from the University of Toronto, Mr. Masella brings a well-rounded and diverse academic foundation to his teaching practice.

With a fascination for space and complex ideas, he often weaves these themes into his teaching. 

Before entering education, Mr. Masella gained valuable leadership experience in various roles, which enhanced his ability to manage diverse groups and foster collaboration. His experience as a tutor fueled his passion for teaching, leading him to pursue a career in education where he could inspire youth and make a positive impact on their futures.

Mr. Masella regularly demonstrates his enthusiasm and commitment to the school community by actively contributing to school-wide initiatives like food drives and cabaret shows.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Masella enjoys exploring new culinary experiences and embraces weightlifting for its positive impact on health and fitness, values he aims to inspire in his students. You can count on him to talk about new music he has recently discovered!

Federico Angelucci
Boys' Residence Don

Federico was born in nearby Ortona and spent most of his life in Francavilla al Mare before relocating to Lanciano for work.

With over fifteen years of experience as a private tutor and childcare professional, Federico has cultivated a strong natural rapport with young people across a wide range of age groups. He finds the most rewarding part of his work in witnessing students' personal and emotional growth—a passion that continues to guide his professional path.

Joining the CCI boarding school environment has been an enriching experience for Federico, offering the opportunity to connect with students in a structured and dynamic educational setting.

He especially values the chance to foster trust, offer guidance, and contribute to a positive and inclusive community life.

In July 2024, Federico made the decision to return to university to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering, a reflection of his intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.

In his free time, he enjoys reading—ranging from manga to scientific literature—listening to music, and traveling whenever possible.

Frank Mauceri
Teacher & Administrator

Mr. Frank Mauceri is a senior teacher and administrator bringing over 30 years of experience from classrooms and leadership roles in Canada, Switzerland, and Dubai. He believes that every student should feel seen, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential—both academically and socially. Creating a welcoming and inclusive school environment is at the heart of everything he does.

A member of both the Ontario College of Teachers and the Ontario Principals’ Council, Mr. Mauceri has taught internationally and served as Associate Principal at the American School of Dubai, as well as a teacher and administrator with a public school board in the Greater Toronto Area. Originally trained in Business Administration at Toronto Metropolitan University, he later followed his true calling in education, earning a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University and pursuing advanced qualifications in Special Education, Technology in the Classroom, and School Leadership.

He is known for fostering collaborative learning and innovative teaching practices that help young people grow with confidence. Outside of school, Mr. Mauceri enjoys sailing, skiing, hiking, and exploring new places. He also has a passion for Formula 1, cooking, and discovering new recipes with his wife and two daughters.

Mr. Giancarlo Mazzanti 
University Admissions Advisor

Mr. Giancarlo Mazzanti brings a wealth of experience to CCI, having most recently served as Director of Student Services and Registrar at St. Michael’s College at the University of Toronto. During his tenure at U of T, Mr. Mazzanti made significant contributions in admissions, academic advising, recruitment, and scholarships. He managed a comprehensive Student Services portfolio encompassing Accessibility Services, Learning Strategies, and Career Advising. Additionally, he served as a Computer Science Supplementary Application Evaluator and Admission Appeal Assessor for the Faculty of Arts and Science. His career at U of T followed decades of leadership in Toronto’s independent school sector as a Guidance Director.

Mr. Mazzanti’s passion for international education began during his studies at U of T, where he earned a degree in Political Science and Modern Languages. His academic journey included enriching experiences at the Università per Stranieri di Siena and the Université de Nice. This passion inspired him to establish and serve as the inaugural Principal of the International Summer Academy at St. Michael’s College School. He has instilled his appreciation for global learning in his four sons, who have studied in both national and international settings.

An active contributor to the educational community, Mr. Mazzanti has served on numerous committees and delivered presentations on topics such as U.S. and U.K. university admissions. He is a former member of the Board of Directors of the National Catholic Colleges Association and has shared his expertise at the National Association for College Admissions Counseling Conference, the largest educational conference globally.

When not in the office, Mr. Mazzanti can be found on long-distance bicycle rides or on the golf course. His love of hockey led to a 25-year coaching career during which several of his players went on to play professional hockey. He also finds joy in sailing, the culinary arts, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Mr. Mazzanti firmly believes in the transformational power of international education which he considers an essential conduit for greater personal formation and international understanding and collaboration. 

Giuseppina Porfilio
Teacher – Italian language
 
Giuseppina Porfilio is a highly qualified language teacher who is skilled at instructing all levels and across a variety of programs. 
 
Guided by the principle expressed in the quote attributed to Aristotle: “Teaching is the highest form of understanding,” Ms. Porfilio believes a strong connection between teacher and student gives great results and achievements.
 
Ms. Porfilio prides herself on her communicative approach, and plans her lessons according to her students’ needs and interests.
 
Ms. Porfilio’s passion for languages and Italian literature and culture led her to earn a number of different qualifications. In 2015, she obtained the Italian DITALS from Università per Stranieri di Siena – a qualification recognized worldwide for teaching Italian as foreign language.
 
Ms. Porfilio also holds the Italian Certificate in Language Teaching to Adults (CLTA) from International House London where she had the opportunity to teach Italian at different levels and developed the ability to work in a multicultural context. In 2020, she gained a Master in Teaching Italian Language and Literature, provided by the Università Stranieri di Siena and Università e Perugia, where the program focused on learning the main theories of SLA and teaching methods for both face-to-face and online lessons.
 
An enthusiastic, creative and positive person, Ms. Porfilio is known for her flexible yet organized and proactive approach to projects. She loves reading, dancing and travelling – especially when discovering new hidden gems in Italy. She also enjoys the company of her family and friends.

Gonzalo Castro
Boys' Residence Don

Gonzalo is from Argentina, originally from the city of Bell Ville. He holds a degree in Financial Management and has several years of experience practicing his profession. Gonzalo has also dedicated time to supporting younger students in their academic journey, helping them navigate their studies and grow in their careers.

Passionate about connecting with people from around the world, Gonzalo enjoys building relationships and learning from different cultures. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, he thrives in multicultural environments.Traveling is one of his greatest joys. Over the years, Gonzalo has lived in Australia for two and a half years and has had the opportunity to visit more than ten countries, broadening his perspective on both personal and professional levels.

The curiosity and love for new experiences drive him to constantly seek personal growth. His sociable nature and eagerness to engage with diverse cultures and ideas allow him to continuously expand his horizons.

Ms. Jessica House
Teacher - Science, Biology, Phys. Ed., Kinesiology

Ms. Jessica House is a high school science and mathematics educator with a specialization in biology. She believes that building strong connections with students is key to understanding their individual learning styles and inspiring curiosity in the subject matter. She is committed to creating inclusive, supportive classrooms where all students can succeed. Drawing on her experience working with students with additional learning needs (ALN), she carefully adapts her approach to help each learner engage fully with the material.

Ms. House holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Guelph, where she studied biotechnology and political science. Her international teaching journey began in Wales, where she completed her teacher training at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Since then, she has continued to embrace global experiences, most recently teaching for two years at a Canadian school in Taiwan, where she began learning Mandarin and immersed herself in the local culture and community.

Outside of school, Ms. House enjoys music, the arts, and staying active. She plays piano, draws in her spare time, and has worked as both a swim and ski instructor. She looks forward to taking advantage of Lanciano’s location near both mountains and the sea, which suits her love of the outdoors.

Katia Marino
Kitchen Support

Katia Marino is from Lanciano and brings care, consistency, and a strong sense of organization to her role in kitchen support. Before joining the team, she worked with a professional cleaning company, gaining valuable experience in maintaining high standards of hygiene and efficiency.

Her work in hospitality support is something she takes pride in—especially when it comes to keeping things in order and helping the team run smoothly behind the scenes.

Katia holds a diploma and finds joy and motivation in both her job and her role as a mother. For her, caring for others—whether at home or at work—is at the heart of everything she does.

Larry Henry
Teacher, Business and Law
 
Mr. Henry is a veteran teacher who embraces experiential learning and practical applications to subject theory and concepts. He finds his students often bring just as much to the classroom as he does — if not more.
 
Mr. Henry uses his vast experience and connections in the business and legal communities to enlighten his students on the skills, and ethical & moral considerations important to those fields.  
 
In addition to teaching, Mr. Henry has been an avid basketball coach for 40 years, working at all levels. He has been blessed with having coached a number of skilled players who have gone on to enjoy successful college and university careers both in Canada and the U.S. — one having played in the WNBA. 
 
Mr. Henry is also your person if you’re looking to be regaled with Boston Celtics and Larry Bird stories. He is also a very proud father of two amazing children who are studying and soon embarking in careers as a Dental Hygienist and an Electrician.
 

Mackenzie Muldoon
Teacher

Ms. Mackenzie Muldoon is a dedicated and passionate educator who is committed to designing learning experiences that help students explore diverse perspectives and create real world connections. She believes that education should empower students to develop both empathy and critical thinking skills as they navigate complex ideas and issues. 

Ms. Muldoon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Indigenous Studies from Carleton University, and a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. Ms. Muldoon’s background in Indigenous Studies fostered her passion for equitable, cross cultural education. As part of her teacher training, Ms. Muldoon spent time in various schools in Kenya, gaining valuable insight into different educational systems and cultural contexts. This experience deepened her passion for fostering a globally minded and culturally responsive classroom. 

Before entering the teaching profession, Ms. Muldoon worked in a variety of roles that shaped her approach as an educator. Years spent at a gym nurtured her appreciation for wellness and goal setting, while her time as a camp counsellor and daycare staff confirmed her love of working with young people.

Outside of school, Ms. Muldoon enjoys discovering new foods and cuisines, often bringing that curiosity into her own cooking and baking. She is an avid reader, a film enthusiast, and finds balance through weightlifting and hiking.

Luigia Di Bucchianico 
Girls’ Residence Don

Luigia is a tireless dreamer, a food lover and a true people person. 

As a Residence Don, Luigia is committed to supporting students in their academic success, while also encouraging the personal responsibility, safety and healthy living habits that are required for residence life and beyond. 

Being a Don also means she can apply her passion for meeting new people and learning about their lives and backgrounds. 

After earning her bachelor’s degree in economics, and becoming an accountant in Lanciano, Luigia was bitten by the travel bug and moved to Canada with a few bags and big dreams. Her foray into education began as a supply teacher for the Toronto Catholic District School Board while working as a floor manager at a busy Toronto restaurant. Always in touch with her passion for food, Luigia also earned her diploma in food technology, safety and quality.

Like many people, the pandemic forced Luiga to rethink her priorities, and she returned to Lanciano in 2020 to be close to her family.

In addition to her commitment to CCI, Luigia is also an entrepreneur in her family's B&B. She is always seeking new travel adventures in search of exciting cultural immersions, new food flavors and practicing her English skills.

In her spare time, Luigia is an avid reader and book collector who dreams of one day having a library like the one in Beauty and the Beast. She also enjoys binge watching TV series on Netflix and films. 

Manuel Ferrante
Boys' Residence Don

Manuel, or Manu as most of our students call him, has a firm conviction that residence life is at the core of a successful boarding school experience. That is why his main focus is to always help our boys feel as if they are part of a big family — supported and listened to.

After high school, Manuel followed his desire to help people by volunteering for the Yellow Cross of Lanciano, earning a first aid certificate and the access and operation of defibrillators. Manuel has also worked with the Blue Cross, assisting people with disabilities to access their medical appointments.

After spending 6 months in Toronto to improve his English and to experience a different culture, Manuel came back to Italy and joined CCI in late 2018.

Manuel is interested in sports and music, playing amateur volleyball and strumming the bass guitar. He highly values CCI’s multicultural environment, and finds it a unique and enriching experience.

Maria Cupido
Girls’ Residence Don

Maria brings warmth, structure, and deep care to her role as Girls’ Residence Don. She believes that the residence experience is an opportunity to help young women grow in confidence, independence, and self-awareness during a transformative time in their lives.

Originally from Italy, Maria spent over a decade in Australia working in schools, clinics, and aged care. She returned to Lanciano to support her family and now contributes her leadership experience to the CCI community.

She is multilingual in English and Italian and has a strong background in residence life and supervision. As a mother of two daughters, she understands the importance of emotional safety and consistent support in helping students thrive far from home.

Outside of school, Maria enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, visiting local markets, and exploring her interest in fashion.

Mariana Rotondaro
Communications Officer

Mariana holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and has two decades of corporate experience. Her diverse background spans multinational companies, advertising agencies, e-commerce, radio, and NGOs, providing her with a deep understanding of the market. This experience has honed her adaptability, making it one of her key strengths. 

After many years in the corporate sector, she started seeking projects that were personally meaningful. Recognizing her experience, enthusiasm, and desire to make a real impact, she began by creating and conducting creativity workshops for entrepreneurs and children. She also worked as an Educational Assistant in Australia, where she spent two years, and volunteered with NGOs focusing on education, art, and children’s rights. 

Mariana is passionate about encouraging others to spark their curiosity and develop their own creative perspectives, believing that even small actions can lead to significant change.

She loves colors, the sea, and traveling. Nature boosts her energy, especially taking off her shoes and lying down on the grass. She loves creativity in all its forms; if you talk to her, she will probably end up recommending something for you to watch, read, or listen to.

She relishes trying new flavours wherever she goes. However, she wouldn’t trade the classic tastes of Argentina, her home, for anything.

Meaghan Calculli
Girls' Residence Don

Originally from Canada, Meaghan moved to Italy in 2023 to give her family a closer connection to their Italian roots. With a decade of experience as an educational assistant, she has dedicated her career to supporting young people, particularly children with disabilities, fostering inclusive environments where students can thrive. Her patience, empathy, and hands-on experience have helped countless students develop confidence and independence.

As a Girls Residence Don, Meaghan brings warmth, structure, and a strong sense of community to boarding life. She is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where students feel at home. Her background in education, along with her personal experience raising her own teenagers, allows her to guide and mentor students as they navigate both academic and personal growth.

Outside of her role, Meaghan enjoys cooking and exploring diverse culinary traditions, tending to her garden, and traveling—a passion that stems from her past career as a travel consultant. An avid reader, she values continuous learning and meaningful conversations, always seeking to connect with students and colleagues alike.

Michael Boyle
Boys’ Residence Don & Activities Coordinator

Michael Boyle was born in Belfast with family roots in Canada and grew up in England. Curious by nature and deeply committed to personal growth, he believes that embracing challenges and taking responsibility for one’s journey are essential to learning and life. He has a strong interest in culture, philosophy, and storytelling, and looks for ways to inspire conscious living through both his work and creative projects.

Michael holds a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Business and Management from the University of Reading, including a year abroad at EM Strasbourg Business School. His professional background is diverse, spanning hospitality, education, artisanal farming, and community volunteer work in several countries. This wide range of experience has given him a practical and global perspective that he brings to residence life at CCI.

At the heart of Michael’s role as a residence don is the belief that the boarding house should feel like home—safe, supportive, and guided by approachable adults. But he also emphasizes the importance of joy. From his experiences at Holyport College, Eton College, and most recently House Olympus, Michael has seen how powerful it is when boarding life includes laughter, shared experiences, and memorable activities. At Canadian College Italy, he is dedicated to fostering that same spirit of warmth and connection for the students in his care.

Mirko Carrieri 
Head Chef

Mirko Carrieri grew up in the charming coastal town of Ortona, where his passion for food and cooking began. 

After graduating from Alberghiero, a renowned culinary school specializing in restaurant and hospitality management, he refined his craft through years of experience in Italy and abroad, working in London, Melbourne, Scotland, and various picturesque locations across Italy, including Cortina d’Ampezzo and Pienza.

As CCI’s Head Chef, Mirko plans and prepares meals daily for our students and staff, combining fresh ingredients, culinary expertise, and a love for hearty, homemade flavors. 

His extensive experience in both culinary roles and restaurant management has equipped him with exceptional organizational skills and a knack for creating meals that bring people together.

For Mirko, family is everything. As a proud father, his daughters inspire him every day, and he takes great pride in being a caring and devoted parent. When he’s not in the kitchen, Mirko enjoys snowboarding, exploring nature, and cheering passionately for Napoli Soccer.

Natalia Lukinskaia 
Executive Assistant to the Director

As the Executive Assistant, Ms. Lukinskaia plays a supportive role to the Director of CCI while managing a wide range of administrative responsibilities. Her role involves working closely with international educational agencies, handling inquiries, overseeing application processes, and coordinating visa procedures with precision.

With a background in linguistics from Russia, speaking three languages and having experience working with global companies, Ms. Lukinskaia uses her communication skills to facilitate families from all over the world to learn all about our programs and facilities, as well as assisting along their application process. 

Ms. Lukinskaia believes that showing firm support in organizational matters to our international students and their families is the key to the smooth functioning of our school’s operations. 

In her free time, Ms. Lukinskaia enjoys exploring new destinations with her husband and spending time with their golden retriever, Lucas. Whether it's a weekend getaway or an international adventure, they love discovering new places and creating lasting memories together.

Roberta Piucci
Teacher, Italian, Spanish and French

Ms. Piucci is a highly qualified language teacher with extensive professional experience at an international level. 

Born in Lanciano, Ms. Piucci was just three years old when she told her of her dream to “learn languages and travel the world and be able to understand people." 

Today, her mission is to instill this passion in her students, as she believes, "There is no man more complete than the one who travelled a lot, who changed the shape of his thoughts and his life twenty times" (Alphonse de Lamartine).

Ms. Piucci's magical power to transmit this passion lies in her ability to connect with her students on a personal level, sharing dreams, goals, successes, and failures, as she often reminds them, "I was a student too, before being a teacher."

Having graduated in Oriental Languages and Civilizations in 2014 and in Politics and International Relations of Asia and Africa in 2017, Roberta has worked at the most important Italian institutions abroad, including in Chile, Tunisia, Jordan, and Spain. In 2020, she obtained the CEDILS certification from the University of Venice, a globally recognized qualification for teaching Italian as a foreign language.

Professionally, Ms. Piucci has a reputation as an energetic and determined educator, with a deep love for the communicative approach and group work in the classroom. Outside of work, she is characterized as playful and somewhat romantic, with an endless love for her cat, dancing, and her wonderful one-year-old child.
 

Sarah Taylor
Administrative & Educational Assistant

Mrs. Taylor is an experienced teacher and globe-trotting adventurer, whose passion for learning and embracing new experiences has taken her from Ottawa's classrooms to the skies, across continents, and now to CCI.

With degrees from University of Western Ontario and Ottawa University, Mrs. Taylor worked as a French teacher for over two decades in Ottawa, offering her time to student council and various clubs throughout her career.

After retiring from full time teaching, Mrs. Taylor went on to a second career in aviation, serving as a flight attendant for seven years; a post that allowed her to to visit every Canadian province and almost every territory.

Most recently, Mrs. Taylor and her husband, Mr. Taylor, concluded a successful two year term at a private international school in Ecuador. This experience was not only gratifying, but Mrs. Taylor especially enjoyed learning new customs, sampling new foods and learning a new language: Spanish. She is setting her sights on Italian next.

When not at school, Mrs. Taylor loves to travel and learn new things. 

Having acquired a newfound passion for scuba diving in Ecuador, Mrs. Taylor plans to take her new skills to the sparkling waters of the Adriatic. She also looks forward to sharing her Italian adventures with her four sons when they come to visit from Canada.

Ms. Sasha Felthman
Teacher - English

Ms. Sasha Felthman is a passionate and reflective educator whose teaching philosophy is grounded in connection, inclusion, and curiosity. She believes that student engagement flourishes when learning is meaningfully tied to students’ identities and lived experiences. Ms. Felthman aims to build strong connective relationships with students through compassion and authenticity. Her classroom is a space where students feel safe to explore, take risks, and see themselves reflected in the curriculum. 

Ms. Felthman earned her Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English and biology, followed by completing her Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. Specializing in International Education, she gained experience learning the educational landscape of an international school in Spain.

Before entering education, Ms. Felthman facilitated educational programs that emphasized environmental sustainability and community engagement, inspiring participants to take local action. She integrated Indigenous cultural heritage and rural perspectives to promote inclusivity and deepen cultural understanding. These experiences fueled her passion for teaching and continue to shape her commitment to meaningful, inclusive education.

Outside the classroom, Ms. Felthman enjoys cooking and embarking on new culinary experiences, finding inspiration in diverse flavours from her travels. She is an avid reader and loves spending time outdoors, appreciating nature’s beauty. Her passion for exploration, whether through a good book or a new place, fuels her curiosity and creativity both in and out of the classroom.

Scott Taylor 
Teacher, Mathematics

Mr. Taylor is a distinguished mathematics educator hailing from Ottawa, Ontario. His extensive 32-year tenure at Bell High School in Ottawa was crowned by a 21-year leadership as the Department Head of Math, Business, and Computer Science.

Mr. Taylor’s skilled teaching abilities and engaging communication style made him beloved by students and colleagues alike.

In 2021, Mr. Taylor and his wife, Mrs. Taylor, decided to broaden their pedagogical horizons by moving to Ecuador, where he embraced a transformative role as an Instructional Facilitator at Colegio Menor in Samborondón.

Mr. and Mrs. Taylor also had the opportunity to explore South America extensively, immersing themselves in many new experiences, including learning to scuba dive.

Throughout his career,  Mr. Taylor has nurtured a passion for working with young people in their mathematics education, teaching all levels of mathematics, and helping them reach their academic goals.  

He feels fortunate to be able to continue these efforts with his students at Canadian College Italy. 

Stefano De Medio
Boys’ Residence Don

Stefano De Medio is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment where students feel understood, motivated, and at home. With a natural ability to connect with young people, he focuses on helping boys develop confidence, balance, and respect in their daily lives at CCI.

Having grown up with two sisters—one older and one younger—Stefano values empathy, communication, and collaboration, qualities that guide his approach to pastoral care. Alongside his residence role, he has worked as a private tutor for teenagers in math, science, and English, helping students strengthen both academic skills and self-assurance.

Before joining CCI, Stefano built a dynamic career in digital media as a Web Jockey and Esports Caster, engaging audiences aged 13 to 20 through live broadcasts, commentary, and storytelling. This experience deepened his understanding of youth culture and his ability to connect with students in authentic, relatable ways.

Passionate about music, gaming, and community building, Stefano believes that learning extends beyond the classroom. As a mentor and role model, he encourages students to pursue their interests, take responsibility for their actions, and approach challenges with curiosity, discipline, and optimism.

Steven Centofanti
Director of Student Affairs

Steven Centofanti, affectionately known as Mr. C, has has been the School Resource Manager at Canadian College Italy since 2005.

Mr. Centofanti was born in Canada but has lived most of his life in Italy and is bilingual in English and Italian. Originally from Sulmona, he now lives in Frisa, a small town outside Lanciano, with his young family.

Mr. Centofanti is a talented individual whose services are indispensable to the life of the school. Not only does Mr. C deal with administrative issues but he also oversees the maintenance of all the school buildings, and the safety and security of our staff and students.

As an award leader for our Duke of Edinburgh's Award program, he connects students to the community for any extra-curricular activities they wish to pursue, including scuba diving, of with he is a master.

He also has a passion for food and has extensive experience in culinary arts, having worked both as a professional baker and a cook. This makes him a particularly valuable member of the Cucina program along with the kitchen staff.

Susan Milne
Teacher

Mrs. Susan Milne is a seasoned educator with over 30 years of teaching experience in Canada and abroad, including Switzerland, England, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates. Originally from Erin, Ontario, she holds a Bachelor of Education from Mount Allison University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Pedagogy from the University of Toronto’s OISE.

Mrs. Milne teaches English and Drama while also serving as a supportive mentor to students and teachers. She is certified with specialist qualifications in Guidance, Special Education, and English, and is known for creating inclusive classrooms where students feel seen, encouraged, and challenged to grow.

Beyond the classroom, she has directed major theatrical productions, organized educational travel programs, and contributed to innovative curriculum initiatives, including transition programs for university-bound students. In her spare time, Mrs. Milne enjoys skiing, reading, and traveling with her family, and recently began walking the Camino trail, which she looks forward to completing.

Tim Knapp
Academic Program Coordinator & Teacher

Timothy Knapp became keenly interested in history as a young student because of an inspirational teacher who had a knack for telling stories.

After high school, however, he decided to enter the workforce — a path which led to interesting employment experiences and the development of many useful life skills. 

After a number of years, Mr. Knapp returned to school with the intention of becoming a history teacher.

While at Arizona State University, Mr. Knapp was surprised to find tremendous enjoyment studying mathematics and physics. He liked them so much, he decided to change paths and pursue teaching degrees in those subjects. Mr. Knapp still intends to return to university one day to pursue postgraduate studies in those disciplines. 

During his years as a student, Mr. Knapp held a part-time job at an indoor climbing gym which ignited a passion for technical rock climbing, a hobby which allowed him to enjoy many years of traveling to some of the most remote and beautiful cliffs in North America and Southeast Asia. 

Mr. Knapp started his high school teaching career in Phoenix, Arizona in 2005.

Eventually, his love for travel and adventure called him to accept work at an international school in San Jose and Costa Rica, where he also learned Spanish and practiced surfing.

In 2008, Mr. Knapp accepted a full time faculty position with Canadian College Italy and went on to acquire an Ontario Teaching Certificate to add to his international qualifications. 

Mr. Knapp’s career and home life are centered around his main goal of leaving the earth better than he found it.

At home, this means developing his gardening and DIY skills at his rebuilt farmhouse on the outskirts of Lanciano where he lives with his beautiful wife and two children. There they produce as much food and energy as they can. 

At school, this means sharing his passion for physics and mathematics with students and enriching their studies while on school trips around Italy and Europe. 

Mr. Knapp is particularly inspired by meeting a wonderful new group of students at the start of the year for whom he strives to build a comfortable environment “where they are free to develop into the adults of our future,” he says.