During the 10th International Conference of the European Transcultural Nursing Association (ETNA), recently held in Budapest, Professor Antonio Bonacaro – Associate Professor of Nursing Science at the University of Parma and coordinator of the Healthcare Master’s programs – was awarded the prestigious ETNA Fellowship. This is the highest honor conferred by the Association to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the promotion of health from a transcultural perspective.
The award celebrates an academic and scientific journey marked by consistency and vision, built over more than a decade of international activity. Professor Bonacaro has passionately dedicated himself to the development of care models that are sensitive to cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity. His work has taken shape through teaching, research, and the design of educational programs that promote equity, inclusivity, and intercultural dialogue.
ETNA emphasized the value of Professor Bonacaro’s contribution, describing him as a shining example of nursing leadership committed to social justice and the creation of truly accessible healthcare systems for all communities. At a time when health systems are increasingly interconnected, transcultural competence is emerging as a fundamental pillar for ensuring quality, safety, and the humanization of care.
The award aligns with the broader mission of the University of Parma’s Healthcare Master’s programs, which promote advanced education that is attuned to global challenges and inspired by the values of openness, respect, and pluralism. The focus on the cultural dimension of care – integrated into the educational content of the Master’s programs – equips professionals with the awareness and responsibility needed to operate effectively in today’s multicultural environments.
“Receiving this recognition from an important association like ETNA is not only a great honor for me,” said Professor Antonio Bonacaro, “but also a strong encouragement to continue pursuing my commitment to a truly intercultural nursing education, rooted in the values of respect, dialogue, and compassionate care.”