The American University of Rome marks with respect the passing of Ambassador Alessandro Cortese de Bosis, who served as President of the University from 1993 to 1995.
Born in Rome in 1926 into a family deeply engaged in Italy’s intellectual and anti-fascist traditions, Cortese de Bosis came of age during a defining period in European history. As a young man, he experienced the German occupation of Rome and later served with the Italian forces aligned with the Allies, acting as a liaison officer with the British Eighth Army.
After the war, he earned a law degree from the University of Rome and entered the Italian diplomatic service. Over a distinguished career, he held postings in Paris, Moscow, Washington, and New York, serving as Consul General and advancing Italy’s cultural presence abroad. He later served as Ambassador to Hungary and Denmark, and as Director General for Cultural Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Following his retirement from diplomatic service, Cortese de Bosis remained active in cultural and educational life. He led The American University of Rome during a formative period, bringing to the role an international perspective and a belief in education as a bridge between cultures.
He also devoted considerable effort to preserving the legacy of his uncle, the anti-fascist poet and aviator Lauro de Bosis, contributing to ongoing reflections on history, memory, and civic responsibility.
Ambassador Cortese de Bosis’s life spanned a century of political and cultural change. Thoughout, he exemplified leadership grounded in public service and international understanding.
The American University of Rome extends its condolences to his family and to all who had the privilege of working with him. His contribution to the University remains part of its institutional history.