Arianna Talamona Named Alumna of the Year 2024 by the University of Milan-Bicocca
Paralympic swimmer Arianna Talamona, silver medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, has been awarded the Alumna of the Year prize by BicoccAlumni, the alumni association of Milan-Bicocca University. The award was presented during the association’s gala, held last night at Osteria del Treno in Milan.
Born in 1994 in Malnate (Varese), Arianna Talamona was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition but discovered her passion for swimming early in life. Her dedication led her to become a world champion in 2019 and a silver medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. She has competed in three Paralympic editions, including Rio 2016 and Paris 2024. Beyond her sporting achievements, Talamona has also excelled academically and professionally. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences and Techniques in 2017 and completed her master’s degree in Psychology of Social, Decision-Making, and Economic Processes in 2020 at Milan-Bicocca.
Since 2016, Talamona has been active on social media, sharing her daily life and perspectives on disability with humour and empathy. Today, she works as a DE&I (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) expert, serving as a content strategist and project leader for inclusion projects at a communication agency.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me," said Talamona. "My years at Milan-Bicocca were pivotal—they marked my first truly positive educational experience and a time of real independence. Every time I return, I feel emotional recalling those days when everything seemed possible. Thanks to the university’s support, I was able to balance my high-level athletic career with my academic responsibilities, preparing for World and European Championships while studying for exams—a remarkable achievement. Now, my goal is to build a career as a DE&I expert, helping people and companies foster diversity and inclusion. Without my studies at Bicocca, I would never have taken this path.”
“The University of Milan-Bicocca is proud of the journey our double graduate, Arianna Talamona, has undertaken,” said Rector Giovanna Iannantuoni. “She has distinguished herself not only in her athletic and academic careers but also professionally, where her advocacy and outreach work for the rights of people with disabilities stand out. We cheered for her in Tokyo and Paris, and it is through the experiences and successes of alumni like Arianna that our university has earned its stellar national and international reputation. Stories like hers inspire us to continue enhancing our focus on sports and inclusivity.”
Laura Russo, President of BicoccAlumni, shared similar sentiments: “We are delighted to name Arianna Talamona as our Alumna of the Year 2024. Arianna exemplifies extraordinary dedication and determination. As a successful Paralympic athlete, she has achieved numerous podium finishes, including at the World Championships and the Paralympic Games, proving that it is possible to balance high-level sport with academic excellence. Her journey reminds us that any goal can be achieved with passion, commitment, and strong motivation, making her a role model for all of us.”
This marked the fourth edition of the BicoccAlumni Award. Previous recipients include Gian Maria Mossa, Ileana Boneschi, and Daniele Bellasio.
Photos from the event can be accessed via this link.