Washington, D.C. Visit Opens Possibilities for Increased Trade for Arkansas
August 10, 2015
Singapore Economic Development Board in Arkansas
October 8, 2015
During a recent study abroad trip, University of Arkansas (UA) Apparel Merchandising and Product Development faculty Laurie Apple, Lance Cheramie, and Kathy Smith had the opportunity to visit the World Trade Center Milan. The meeting was arranged by Boon Tan of the World Trade Center Arkansas. The faculty members were met by Barbara Masella and Franca Reginato who hosted the group. The visit focused on fashion, art, and sustainability, and it was followed by a tour of the premises.
The WTC Milan tenants include the management, enhancement, and conservation of works of art and precious objects with extensive technology and support for the handling, conservation and restoration of art. In addition, there are spaces for art exhibits and fashion shows.
Paolo Cottino, Managing Director, of KCity, an urban planning and development consultancy firm, had a productive meeting with Cheramie. KCity focuses on planning processes and tools, abandoned buildings and derelict areas, grant opportunities, and local networks and organizations. They discussed the possibilities of collaborating on a project in corporate apparel, textile sustainability, and environmental issues, as well as possibly investigating Italian apparel manufacturing firms.
The two organizations hope to continue their relationship to further enhance faculty and student experiences when traveling in the future to Milan and northern Italy.