On Monday, May 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM, the Aula Magna of the Rectorate at the University of Messina will host the honorary doctorate ceremony in “Economics, Management and Statistics” for Dr. Santo Versace, a prominent entrepreneur in the Italian and international fashion industry. The Laudatio will be delivered by Professor Augusto D'Amico, Full Professor of Economics and Business Management. Dr. Versace will give a Lectio Doctoralis on the theme: “From the Superfluous to the Essential. Rediscovering Italian Luxury as a Tool for Harmonious Innovation and Inclusion.”
Unanimously recognized among the most important managers in the multifaceted and vibrant world of Italian fashion — considered one of the most influential worldwide — the Reggio Calabria-born entrepreneur, together with the creative genius of his brother Gianni, led the Versace Maison, establishing it as a global icon of “Made in Italy” fashion. He led the Gianni Versace brand (founded in 1978) as Founding President and played a key role in expanding it across a wide range of sectors, including apparel, fragrances, accessories, and home furnishings. He is the Founding President of Altagamma (Association of Italian Luxury Companies), established in 1992 to bring together and promote Italy’s top luxury brands.
Santo Versace’s contribution also extends to philanthropy. Through the Santo Versace Foundation, which he chairs and which was founded in 2021, he has actively worked to combat social inequality by promoting inclusive initiatives supporting vulnerable individuals. In 2019, he received the national award “Toson d'oro di Vespasiano Gonzaga”. On November 24, 2021, at the headquarters of the Commission for Intercountry Adoption of the Italian Prime Minister’s Office, he was awarded the “Fashion Dresses Peace” prize by African Fashion Gate and the National Office Against Racial Discrimination (UNAR) for his social commitment, particularly in the fight against discrimination.