When beloved undergraduate adviser, Chriselda Engel retired in 2015, the entire department came together to express their gratitude. ME students, faculty, and sta raised $4,825 to send Engel and her husband, Chris, on a well-deserved dream vacation.

Soon after, the Engels made plans for a two-week, Italian getaway. “We thoroughly enjoyed all of the places we visited in Italy including Florence, Tuscany, Pisa, the Cinque Terre region, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast,” Engel said. Florence was one of their favorite spots. “We loved that we could easily walk everywhere in Florence to explore and visit key sites, such as Il Duomo, the Accademia Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Basilica of Santa Croce.”

Besides the gorgeous art and architecture, the Engels had many glorious foodie adventures, “Wow,” said Engel. “The fresh seafood in the coastal regions was great. I have to say that all of the pasta dishes were incredible.”

Whether it was charming train rides from one city to another, conversing with welcoming natives, or taking in the lovely sights and tastes of Italy, it’s a vacation the Engels will never forget!