On December 11, the annual VIMM Donors’ Award Ceremony was held in the Great Hall of the University of Padua — the traditional event created to honor and thank those who support our Institute and to reflect on the past, present, and future of the research carried out at VIMM.

The relationship that binds us to the University, the territory, the community, our donors, and the institutions that support us grows stronger every year, giving new energy to our work and propelling our Institute toward new discoveries and prestigious achievements.

After the welcoming remarks by Rector Daniela Mapelli and Veneto Region President Luca Zaia, who officially opened the evening, our Honorary President Francesco Pagano took the floor to reflect on the meaning and importance of scientific research, and on the shared responsibility to support and promote it.

One of the highlights of the evening — and the centerpiece of the entire event — was the insightful and widely applauded speech by Luciano Violante, President of Fondazione Leonardo and former President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, which offered many stimulating reflections and perspectives on the value of knowledge and innovation.

His keynote lecture, titled “Artificial Intelligence: Scientific Progress, Ethics, and Rights,” explored in depth a highly topical issue, addressing its many dimensions and implications. The discussion was further expanded during the traditional round table held on the same occasion.

Many insights and points of interest emerged from the debate, moderated by

Luca Ubaldeschi, Director of the publications of the Nord Est Multimedia Group. The round table featured the contributions of VIMM Scientific Director Nicola Elvassore, Principal Investigator Maurizio Corbetta, and Francesco Micheli, President and CEO of Genextra, who in 2024 was appointed Member of VIMM’s Board of Directors.

The evening concluded with ample space dedicated to the recognition and celebration of our donors, who continue to show their commitment and renew their support year after year. This support is fundamental for VIMM — not only for advancing laboratory resources and research projects, but also as a confirmation that together we are building something truly meaningful.