Marco Ruella, MD is a physician-scientist and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, where he specializes in treating hematologic cancers and developing next-generation immunotherapies. In addition to his research, he is deeply committed to mentorship, global collaboration, and advancing the field, while also serving as scientific founder of Vittoria Biotherapeutics. As a candidate for Blood Cancer United’s Visionary of the Year, he proudly supports efforts to accelerate research and improve outcomes for patients and families affected by blood cancers.

Nadia Magnanini is a Professor at the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania, where she teaches Italian language and culture within a globally focused, interdisciplinary curriculum. Originally from Turin, Italy, she holds a BA in Political Science and an MA in International Studies and Human Rights from the University of Turin.

Beyond the classroom, Nadia plays an active leadership role in Professionisti Italiani Philadelphia, a prominent network of Italian professionals, and has led cultural and educational initiatives through the America-Italy Society of Philadelphia. She is a member of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages and is committed to advancing intercultural competence and global leadership through language education.