Language House
Elbert House
Elbert House is the Italian Language immersion house, which serves as a residence for 13 - 20 students interested in improving their understanding of both Italian language and culture. The house has a full kitchen and living room. Events are organized by the Cultural Program Coordinators in liaison with the Italian Department.
Language House Cultural Program Coordinators (CPCs) are staff members who live in a language house. In addition to teaching adjunct language courses, CPCs strive to create a sense of community within their houses and provide an opportunity for the students living in the houses to be immersed in the language and culture. The CPCs plan cultural as well as community-building programs
Follow the Italian House activities on our social media: Piazza Italia Colorado College https://www.facebook.com/Piazza-Italia-Colorado-College-101883738897940 and https://www.instagram.com/cc_italian_program/
Join us for Spesso Espresso, every Monday 2-3pm at the Italian House (except 4th Monday).
For more information in International programming, see the Center for Global Education & Field Study page.
Italian CPC 2025-26 Maria Cristina Lanzi
Cristina – or MariaCristina (but never just Maria!) – is the Italian CPC for this academic year and has been part of the Colorado College community for several years. With over a decade of experience in language education, she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her role.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages and Literatures, a Master’s in Translation Studies, and a TEFL qualification in Teaching English as a Second Language. This academic foundation supports her dynamic, student-centered approach to language instruction. A passionate educator and lifelong learner, Cristina is also deeply interested in creative writing.
Cristina is known at CC for fostering a warm, inclusive environment where students feel encouraged to grow both linguistically and culturally. Her adjunct classes are engaging and interactive, designed to make language learning effective, dynamic, and fun.
At the Italian House, she curates a vibrant mix of cultural and social activities, offering students hands-on ways to experience Italian culture beyond the classroom. Whether it’s cooking nights, film screenings, conversation tables, or creative workshops, her events are a highlight for many language lovers on campus.
She looks forward to meeting new students at the Italian House and building another joyful, hands-on, and enriching learning experience together.