Ambassador Armando Varricchio awarded the American businessman and banker Vernon Hill with the Knighthood of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. In 2013, Hill, together with his wife Shirley, invested in the Seguso Vetri d’Arte company, a symbol for over 600 years of the best Murano glass production tradition. The substantial investment has allowed the company to grow and reposition itself throughout international markets, helping to pass on and promote a centuries-old artisan tradition. His love for Italy and Italian art and culture led Hill to make a substantial donation to the Civic Museums of Venice in 2008.
“Vernon Hill has provided a key contribution to safeguarding the artisan and artistic tradition of Murano, a centuries-old tradition strongly connected to the history of the island and the city of Venice,” said Ambassador Varricchio. “Murano and Venice entrepreneurial knowledge has always been deeply connected with a creativity and innovative capacity unique in the world.” Ambassador Varricchio also underlined how “Hill’s entrepreneurial vision and his love for our country have helped to further cement the very strong bonds of friendship between Italy and the United States.”
“I am honored to receive this prestigious decoration from the Italian Republic and Ambassador Varricchio,” said Hill, who currently serves as Chairman of Philadelphia-based Republic Bank. “My wife Shirley and I have long had a deep appreciation for the culture and traditions of Italy, which is reflected in the businesses we invest in and the philanthropic causes we support. To be recognized in this way means a great deal to me.”
The event was held in Villa Firenze, the residence of the Ambassador of Italy in Washington.
