A Tribute to Maria Luisa Rossi
On behalf of Cumulus Association and its entire community, it is with profound sadness that as Cumulus President I share the news of Maria Luisa Rossi’s passing. After a long and courageous battle, she left us with the same elegance and strength that defined her entire life.
Maria Luisa was a pillar of our organization – a passionate advocate for design education who embodied the values of international collaboration and cultural exchange that define Cumulus. As chair of the Cumulus Detroit 2022 conference “Design for Adaptation,” she brought together our global community to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time. As a member of the Cumulus International Affairs Board and a candidate for our Board, she was helping shape the future of design education worldwide.
Her legacy extends far beyond her organizational contributions. At the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, she built bridges between continents and disciplines, preparing generations of designers to be facilitators of social innovation and empathetic change-makers. From her beloved Florence to Paris, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Detroit, Maria Luisa carried with her an infectious enthusiasm for design’s power to transform lives and communities.
We have lost a remarkable colleague whose warmth, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence touched so many across the world. The Cumulus family will deeply miss her presence, her wisdom, and her friendship.
Our hearts are with Vincenzo, Giulia, Matteo, and all who loved her.
Rest in peace, Maria Luisa. Your legacy will continue to guide us.
