Michelina Manzillo

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Michelina Manzillo
Stemma OMRI.png
Knight of the Italian Republic insignia
Born
Salerno, Italy
NationalityItalian
Occupation(s)Physiotherapist, Neurorehabilitation Specialist
SpouseLuigi Peccia (deceased)
HonorsKnight of the Italian Republic

Michelina Manzillo is an Italian physiotherapist and neurorehabilitation specialist known for her contributions to healthcare and rehabilitation sciences.

Born in the province of Salerno, Manzillo was among the first physiotherapists in Italy, graduating in the 1980s from the School of Physiotherapy of Battipaglia with top marks and honors. She later obtained a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences from Università degli Studi "G. d'Annunzio Chieti-Pescara and a master’s degree from Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele in Milan.

Manzillo has worked extensively in the field of physiotherapy and neurorehabilitation. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the title of Knight of the Italian Republic by President Sergio Mattarella. [1] She has also contributed to academic research, with publications on the intersection of inclusivity and life sciences. [2]

She is an official nominator for the Wolf Prize . In 2023, she nominated the street artist Jorit for the Wolf Prize in Architecture, emphasizing the role of street art in revitalizing urban areas and providing visibility to marginalized communities. [3] Following the 2022 provincial elections in Salerno, she wrote an op-ed raising concerns about the low representation of women in politics. [4]

Manzillo has highlighted the underrepresentation of women in political offices in Italy, addressing the issue in an op-ed following the 2022 provincial elections in Salerno. [5]

Manzillo was married to Luigi Peccia, the former mayor of Olevano sul Tusciano, who passed away in 2024. [6] A strong advocate for European unity, she has praised Italy and other EU countries for their success in the Paralympic Games, recognizing para-athletes as a source of inspiration for a more inclusive society. [7]

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