On May 31st, a seminar titled “Rita Levi-Montalcini (1909-2012): 10 Years after Her Passing” was held at the MAGI headquarters in San Felice del Benaco (Villa Bertelli-Maestrini). This prestigious event brought together esteemed professors and researchers who had the privilege of directly collaborating with Nobel laureate Rita Levi-Montalcini herself. Among the participants was also Dr. Matteo Bertelli, the President of MAGISNAT, who had a decade-long collaboration with Professor Levi-Montalcini in relation to the Foundation for Africa.

Professor Levi-Montalcini, the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1986 for the discovery of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), was an immensely important figure in Italian and global science. Her research revolutionized our understanding of the nervous system and had a significant impact in the field of neuroscience. Her work paved the way for new treatments for a range of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis.

However, Professor Levi-Montalcini’s contributions to science were not limited to this alone. She was also a passionate advocate for scientific education and a fervent opponent of all forms of discrimination. Professor Levi-Montalcini saw science as a way to contribute to society and promote the betterment of humanity, believing that using her talents and abilities to help others was a moral obligation.

The seminar at the MAGI headquarters in San Felice del Benaco was a profound commemoration of the life and legacy of Professor Rita Levi-Montalcini. It brought together distinguished individuals from various scientific disciplines to honor her extraordinary achievements and reflect on her lasting influence in both the spiritual and scientific realms. Ten years after her passing, the work of Professor Levi-Montalcini continues to inspire and guide future generations of scientists, promoting a spirit of curiosity, compassion, and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of humanity.