Bilkent University Rector Prof. Dr. Kürşat Aydoğan, Ear, Nose, Throat and Head & Neck Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Nuri Özgirgin, and entrepreneur Kıvanç Erdirik were named the new knights of the Order of the Star of Italy (Cavalieri dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia) by the Italian government for their contributions to strengthening ties between Italy and Türkiye.
FATİH EFE ŞİŞMAN
The new knights received their decorations at a special ceremony held at the Italian Embassy. Hosted by Italy’s Ambassador to Ankara, Giorgio Marrapodi, the evening brought together a large number of guests. Ambassador Marrapodi noted that the Italian Republic bestows the order upon Italians abroad as well as foreign nationals who contribute to promoting Italy’s image and prestige in various fields. He recalled that the order was first established in 1947, adding that the emblem features Italy’s founding symbols — the star and cogwheel — framed by olive and oak branches.
“MY SECOND HOMELAND”
The decorations were presented by Ambassador Marrapodi. In his speech, Prof. Dr. Kürşat Aydoğan underlined that the bond between Bilkent University, Bilkent Schools, and Italy was not abstract but tangible, saying: “This connection becomes concrete every day through the experiences of our students, academics, and alumni.”
Prof. Dr. Nuri Özgirgin emphasized that Italy, which provides spiritual leadership to more than one billion people through the Vatican, also plays a vital political and economic role within the European Union.
Kıvanç Erdirik, founder of Grano Coffee and Pizzeria alla Torre, said that he was introduced to Italian culture through his wife, Şükran Erdirik, and added, “Italian culture, especially its culinary traditions, has always been a passion for me. I proudly regard Italy as my second homeland and will continue to promote its culinary values with even greater dedication.”
