Medford Alba Sister City Association

Not for Profit Organization 501(c)(3)
Tax ID: 93-0906778

2026 Gianni and Pina Toppino and Pat Shute Memorial Scholarship

Founded in 1960 through President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s Sister Cities International program, the Medford–Alba Sister City partnership is dedicated to fostering international friendship, cultural understanding, and mutual respect.

This scholarship honors the legacy of Gianni and Pina Toppino and Patricia Shute, whose lifelong commitment helped strengthen meaningful connections between the communities of Medford, Oregon and Alba, Italy. The award supports students who demonstrate an openness to diverse perspectives and a commitment to learning from others.

Applicants are selected through an online application and a reflective essay.
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Application Deadline: March 6, 2026

Scholarship Application

Over 60 Years & Going Strong!

History
Over 60 Years and Going Strong! In 1960, Medford, Oregon and Alba, Italy became Sister Cities in support of President Eisenhower’s “People to People” initiative. His vision was for global communities to join together to gain cultural understanding and establish friendships. Our two communities deeply honor this tradition and in 2020, we marked our 60th Year Anniversary -- a remarkable milestone that has impacted generations!

We support various projects to strengthen our community with our “sister” across the sea.
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About Us
Fostering Strong Relationships. The Medford Alba Sister City Committee is a member of Sister Cities International, which serves as a resource center and consultant for sister city programs throughout the United States. Medford's Committee is active in promoting and facilitating exchange programs between Alba and Medford, which continue to enhance our strong relationship.

Official correspondence, holiday greetings, and letters of introduction for persons visiting Alba are coordinated through the Mayor's Office.

Bi-Annual Student Exchange
Travel abroad, meet new friends, and experience
life-changing adventures! Since 1985, the Medford Alba Student Exchange has been instrumental in strengthening the ties between our two cities. These journeys have been life changing to the outstanding students selected to participate. Some students have forged lifelong friendships that have brought together entire families. Almost all return with an increased sense of confidence, independence, and enthusiasm for future travel.
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Sister Cities
Alba and Medford shared some essential traits. Both cities had nearly the same population and both were the centers of flourishing agricultural regions. Both cities enjoyed remarkably similar temperate climates due to their proximity to the sea. The two cities were similarly located in large river valleys surrounded by scenic foothills and the mountains beyond them. Their differences in language, culture and history were not barriers but gifts that they would come to share and appreciate.

Alba, Italy (August 2023)

Medford Alba Sister City Association
PO Box 8738
Medford, OR 97501
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Not for Profit Organization 501(c)(3)
Tax ID: 93-0906778

We sincerely appreciate your contribution!