Man, 89, Achieves Third University Degree After Wife’s Death

Bologna: An 89-year-old man from near Bologna has achieved an extraordinary academic feat by earning his third university degree in seven years, turning to philosophy as a source of solace following the death of his wife 11 years ago.

According to Ansa News Agency, Italo Spinelli from Finale Emilia first graduated in philosophy from the University of Macerata, located in Marche, in 2018. This achievement came four years after the passing of his beloved wife, Angela Orri. Following his initial degree, Spinelli pursued a second degree in history before returning to his passion for philosophy, culminating in his latest graduation in philosophical sciences.

Spinelli’s final degree thesis was intriguingly titled “The Return of Eurydice: Memory and Future in Giordano Bruno.” The thesis examines the work of Giordano Bruno, a philosopher who was executed for heresy in 1600. In a heartfelt dedication on the frontispiece of his thesis, Spinelli expressed gratitude to Professor Arianna Fermani for inspiring his research path and acknowledged the University of Macerata’s rector, Professor John Mc Court, for supporting the pursuit of knowledge within the academic community.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Spinelli shared, “I am happy with my wandering with philosophy. I have always thought about it: what does it mean to seek the truth? One searches for it and perhaps I have found it.” Despite the challenges, particularly in studying the anti-dogmatic ideas of Giordano Bruno, Spinelli encourages young students to persevere, even in the face of setbacks, to achieve their academic goals.

Rector McCourt commended Spinelli’s presence at the university, stating, “In these years, Italo Spinelli has been at home at Unimc (Macerata University). He has had so much affection and respect from our community of students, teachers, and administrative staff. It has been a privilege to accompany him on the path that led him to earn three degrees with us.”

Though Spinelli is not currently considering pursuing a fourth degree, he expressed a desire to support the cause of beatification for Maria Pia Benati, founder and superior general of the missionaries of the Eucharist, who passed away in Forl¬ in November 1986.