1. As a historian of Italian Renaissance art, I spend part of every sabbatical leave in Italy conducting research. This summer, I’m going to Florence and Rome in support of my research on the works of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

2. My research travel supports my teaching. Last spring, I delivered a paper in Venice at the Renaissance Society of America and visited several Palladian villas, which I incorporate into my Western art course.

3. In January 2009, a colleague from Williams and I planned—and walked—a Roman pilgrimage itinerary in preparation for a co-taught seminar for Swarthmore and Williams students during winter break.

4. Students often ask me for a list of places they must see when they go abroad, and I use my travels as an opportunity to help them scout out places.

5. In sum, my travel for research and teaching enables me to contribute to the scholarship in my field, to my work with students, and to the larger global dialogue.