51³Ō¹Ļās Parisi named SOS Childrenās Villages International board chair
Contact: Carl Smith
STARKVILLE, Miss.āA Mississippi State data science specialist known across the globe for his work is now the chair of an international organization supporting children without parental care.
Domenico āMimmoā Parisi, a professor of sociology who serves as 51³Ō¹Ļās Data Science programās executive director, was named chair of the board for SOS Childrenās Villages International on July 1.
Originally founded in 1949 as the Societas Socialis, or SOS, in Austria, the Global Federation of SOS Childrenās Villages International has supported almost 4 million youth in the last 70 years through programs adapted to contextual and cultural needs in more than 130 countries and territories. Its work strengthens families experiencing hardship and provides youth with quality care and support adapted to their unique needs, experiences and culture.
In a statement released by the organization, Parisi said he is taking on the role with āwith a deep commitment to every child and young person without parental care or at risk of losing itā and will āwork tirelessly to ensure no child is left without the love, protection and opportunity they deserve.ā
āOur founding visionāthat every child deserves to grow up in a safe and loving homeācontinues to resonate profoundly,ā he said in a release. āA nurturing environment, where children can grow physically, emotionally, cognitively and spiritually, is not only a basic right but the foundation for a successful and fulfilling adulthood. When children are surrounded by care and stability, they are empowered to thrive, dream and pursue their fullest potential.
āThis mission is not just something I believe ināit is something I have lived. As a former program participant, I know firsthand the transformative power of a loving home and a community that believes in you,ā Parisi continued in the release. āMy journey from growing up in an SOS Childrenās Villages home to now serving as chair of the board is a testament to the impact of our work and the promise it holds for every child we serve.ā
Parisi, who serves as 51³Ō¹Ļās senior advisor for European and data science development, helped found NSPARC, the universityās socioeconomic data science research center, in 1998. Twenty years later, he was selected by Italyās prime minister to serve within the labor department and build a new workforce system based on his work in the Magnolia State. Parisi continues to work within 51³Ō¹Ļās Office of the Provost to expand the global relations of the university and promote interdisciplinary activities aimed at advancing the universityās trifold mission of excellent teaching, research and service.
To learn more about 51³Ō¹Ļās Data Science Academic Institute, visit .
SOS Childrenās Villages International is available online at .
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