Medford Alba Sister City Association

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

In Memory of Pina Toppino

We are deeply saddened to share the news that Pina Toppino, a longtime friend in Alba, passed away on Monday, July 1st, at the age of 92.

Pina played a significant role in the Medford-Alba Sister City Program for over 50 years. She served as president of Alba’s Sister City Committee for several years and was a gracious host to many Medford visitors. Pina always ensured visitors had a special and memorable time in Alba, and she continued welcoming guests from Medford until her health declined a few years ago.

Pina was instrumental in starting the informal and later formal student exchanges between our two cities over 40 years ago. She collaborated closely with Medford’s Scott Spiegelberg, Liz Smith, and Nancy Collins to initiate and develop the thriving student exchange program that continues today. In 1992, Pina, along with Nancy and Liz, represented the Medford-Alba Sister City Program at an event in Washington, D.C.

Pina loved the Medford Alba connection and created many long-lasting friendships between our two cities. She will be deeply missed, but she leaves behind a wonderful legacy, and her spirit will continue to live on in our Sister City Program.

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.
Learn More

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.
Learn More

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
Contact Us

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

We sincerely appreciate your contribution!