Maltese fashion brand Cessani has clarified that it did not sponsor clothing worn by Maria Montebello, following media reports linking the former St Aloysius College Rector to “extravagant and irregular spending” and the alleged promotion of the fashion brand during her short tenure.

The claims were reported on Wednesday (today), a day after news broke that Dr Montebello had resigned from her role just over three months after assuming the position. The newspaper alleged that the administration had raised concerns after she “used her role to promote a fashion brand,” referencing a Facebook post shared on 24th September by Cessani.

The post, published shortly after Dr Montebello was announced Rector on 1st September, featured a photograph of the Rector with Mary Grace Pisani, founder of the boutique. It was accompanied by a caption congratulating Dr Montebello on her appointment, describing it as “a milestone that reflects not only academic excellence but also the strength, humility, and leadership that inspire us all.”

However, when contacted by WhosWho.mt, Cessani firmly denied any form of sponsorship or promotional arrangement.

“Cessani would like to clarify that the clothing worn was not sponsored by our brand. The client in question has been a long-standing private client of our atelier, and any garments she wore were purchased personally. We remain fully committed to transparency and uphold the same service standards for all our clients.”

The brand’s statement indicates that Dr Montebello appeared in garments she had bought privately and that the congratulatory message was not connected to any collaboration.

Dr Montebello’s resignation was communicated to parents and guardians via a circular signed by both herself and Fr Michael Bugeja, Chairperson of the Board.

Her appointment in May marked a historic moment for St Aloysius College, as she became the first woman to serve as Rector. She officially took up the role on 1st September, stepping down just over three months later.