31st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala Journal

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THE SONS OF ITALY FOUNDATION ANNUAL NATIONAL EDUCATION & LEADERSHIP AWARDS GALA

May 23, 2019 - Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center - National Harbor, MD

Table of Contents A Proclamation from President Donald J. Trump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Welcome from the Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 The 2019 SIF NELA Gala Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The 2019 SIF NELA Gala Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 SIF Honoree Vivian Cardia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SIF Honoree Bruno Ciacciarelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SIF Honoree The Frank & Angela Donio Family. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SIF Honoree Lieutenant General (Ret.) Raymond Palumbo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 NELA Chairman Admiral (Ret.) Edmund P. Giambastiani. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The 2019 Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship Sponsors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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The 2019 National Leadership Grant Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Master of Ceremonies Joe Mantegna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

AND

Help Our Military Heroes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Featured Performer: Michael Amante. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 National Anthems: Maria Fassio Pignati . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Highlights from Past NELA Galas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

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The Sons of Italy Foundation: Making a Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 SIF Contribution Highlights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 SIF Past Honorees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 The SIF Board and Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The SIF Staff and Consultants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Gold Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 The Commission for Social Justice® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

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The 2019 NELA Sponsors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

ColavitaOil youtube.com/ColavitaOliveOil @ColavitaOil ColavitaOliveOil b T h e

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P r e s i den t i a l P ro cl a m at ion - C olum bus D ay , 2018

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Welcome

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A Proclamation

In 1492, Christopher Columbus and his mighty three-ship fleet, the Niña, Pinta,

and Santa Maria, first spotted the Americas. His historic achievement ushered in an Age of Discovery that expanded our knowledge of the world. Columbus’s daring journey marked the beginning of centuries of transatlantic exploration that transformed the Western Hemisphere. On Columbus Day, we commemorate the

achievements of this skilled Italian explorer and recognize his courage, will power, and ambition — all values we cherish as Americans.

Columbus’s spirit of determination and adventure has provided inspiration to

Vera Ferrara Girolami, Chairman

Joseph Sciame, President

generations of Americans. On Columbus Day, we honor his remarkable accomplishments as a navigator, and celebrate his voyage into the unknown expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. His expedition formed the initial bond between Europe and the Americas, and changed the world forever. Today, in that spirit, we continue to seek new horizons for greater opportunity and further discovery on land, in sea, and in space.

Although Spain sponsored his voyage, Columbus was, in fact, a proud citizen of the Italian City of Genoa.

As we celebrate the tremendous strides our Nation has made since his arrival, we acknowledge the important contributions of Italian Americans to our country’s culture, business, and civic life. We are also thankful for

our relationship with Italy, a great ally that shares our strong, unwavering commitment to peace and prosperity.

In commemoration of Christopher Columbus’s historic voyage, the Congress, by joint resolution of April

30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as “Columbus Day.”

Welcome to the 31st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala.

Tonight, we proudly honor three extraordinary Italian Americans as well as one family: Vivian Cardia; Bruno

Ciacciarelli; Lieutenant General (Ret.) Raymond Palumbo; and The Frank & Angela Donio Family. We are also proud to be hosting several veterans as our guests for tonight’s gala.

In addition to these extraordinary honorees and courageous veterans, we celebrate the promising future of

our Italian-American youth. This year’s Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) scholarship winners were selected for a combination of exemplary academic performance, school leadership, and community service. The SIF and its national scholarship program are proud to contribute to the future of such students as they pursue higher education that will lead them to many impressive accomplishments down the road.

Finally, we come together on this night to recognize the Sons of Italy and raise money for its Foundation. To

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of

the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October

8, 2018, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and all who have contributed to shaping this Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of October, in the year of our

Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third.

date, members have raised more than $165 million for charities and scholarships. The past year was a particularly

significant one, as the SIF made two separate donations of $100,000 ($200,000 total) in earthquake relief to the Andrea Bocelli Foundation for the rebuilding of a kindergarten and elementary school in Muccia, a town located in

the Marche region of Italy. These substantial donations were made possible through the contributions of members, Local Lodges, and Grand Lodges of the Order Sons & Daughters of Italy in America.

In addition to earthquake relief, the SIF also donated $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes—the SIF’s fifth

contribution in six years. The donation provided a minivan for USArmy CPT Gavin White (ret.). To all veterans in attendance tonight, thank you for your service and your sacrifice.

This evening, we should feel proud of the SIF’s commitment to giving back as well as the many other ways in

which our Local Lodges and Grand Lodges have given to those in need on a local, national, and international level.

It is an evening such as this that allows us to honor these collective efforts and helps raise funds so that the SIF may continue its mission.

DONALD J. TRUMP

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M ay 2 3 , 2 0 1 9 - G ay l o r d N at i o n a l R e s o rt & C o n v e n t i o n C e n t e r -

M ay 2 3 , 2 0 1 9 - G ay l o r d N at i o n a l R e s o rt & C o n v e n t i o n C e n t e r N at i o n a l H a r b o r , M a ry l a n d - 7

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Menu

p . m . p r o g r am s ta rt

Program

A n t i pa s to

“Fratelli d’Italia”

Antipasti

Pasta Station Hors d’oeuvres

Presentation of the Colors “The Star Spangled Banner”

Welcome

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Maria Fassio Pignati Takoma Park (MD) Police Department Honor Guard Maria Fassio Pignati Joe Mantegna, Master of Ceremonies

2019 SIF National Scholarship Presentations (Introduction by Joseph Sciame, President, Sons of Italy Foundation)

I ns a l ata Insalata Caprese

Fresh Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, and Fresh Basil xxx

2019 Humanitarian Award

The Frank & Angela Donio Family Frank G. Donio (Posthumously), Angela L. Donio, Fr. Frank S. Donio, S.A.C. John S. Donio, and James M. Donio

Invocation

Rev. R. Adam Forno

D u et E n t r ee

DINNER SERVED

Braised Lamb Shank Ragout Over Pacherri Pasta

Greetings

Joseph Sciame, President, Sons of Italy Foundation

2019 Award for Excellence in Business Bruno Ciacciarelli President, Roadtex Transportation

Snapper Livornese Baked with Tomato, Capers & Olives xxx

Musical Interlude

Michael Amante

D ol c i

2019 Award for Courage & Patriotism Lieutenant General (Ret.) Raymond Palumbo Partner & Co-Founder, Venturi Solutions

Ricotta Cheese Cake

2 019 National Education & Leadership Award Vivian Cardia Benefactor & Supporter, Italian American Causes

Amaretto Pear Tart

Musical Interlude

Michael Amante “Armed Forces Medley”

Military Presentation

Admiral Edmund Giambastiani, Honorary Chairman

Video Presentation

Benediction

Finale: “God Bless America”

Cannoli Alla Crème Zeppoles xxx

V i no Pighin Pinot Grigio Pio Cesare Nebbiolo

Help Our Military Heroes Fr. Frank S. Donio Maria Fassio Pignati

Venetian Hour with music and dancing

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Vivian Cardia

Bruno Ciacciarelli

B enefactor & S upporter I talian A m erican C auses

P resident

Roadte x T ransportation

THE 2019 SIF NATIONAL EDUCATION & LEADERSHIP AWARD

THE 2019 SIF EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARD Vivian Cardia was born in Manhattan to a wonderful family

who stressed education, their Italian culture, and charity. With

pursuit of that dream for his parents, Emilio and Adele, and his younger sister, JoAnn.

Ubaldo Cardia, bought the existing Beatrice Inn restaurant

in San Giorgio a Liri, Italy, the idea of coming to America was not Bruno’s aspiration

very little money but a great work ethic, her parents, Elsie and

in Greenwich Village in 1951. It provided the opportunities for private schooling, yearly trips to Italy, and an idyllic childhood.

Miss Cardia was one of the first Italian American female members

Bruno’s altruistic attribute is what makes him such an admirable person. Born in 1955

but that of his parents. They asked their son to lead the way toward America, hoping that it would bring forth opportunity for the entire family. Imagine leaving Italy, at the prime of teen life, with only the unknown ahead, doing it selflessly, with honor and

and traders on the American stock exchange. She successfully traded

respect for the love of family. This is where Bruno’s Italian American story begins and

her to join the family business. By that time, it consisted of the original

In 1968, Bruno’s aunt from America, Rosa, and cousin, Donna, vacationed in

options from 1982 to 1988, but after the crash of 1987, her father asked

the realization of an American Dream.

restaurant and several brownstones. They had achieved the American

Italy. After Rosa had a serendipitous conversation with Bruno’s mother, the thought

Everything the Cardias owned was self-managed, so she quickly

would begin the trek alone to America to see firsthand if it would be a good idea to

restaurant was a meeting place for many Italian organizations and

Bruno onward to see if he, too, would see the land of opportunity through the same lens.

dream.

philanthropy.

What is The American Dream? In 1972, at age 17, Bruno Ciacciarelli led the

of emigrating seemed like an attainable goal. Within five years Bruno’s father, Emilio,

learned to be a janitor, waitress, dishwasher, chef, and factotum. The

uproot the entire family. Bruno’s father returned to Italy and, with his blessings, sent

provided the catalyst for Vivian’s interest in Italian Heritage and

Arriving at John F. Kennedy Airport was an unforgettable experience for Bruno.

He recalls the amount of people at the airport were equal to the amount of people in his Italian hometown. Bruno’s uncle, John

After the death of her parents, Vivian set up Vivicar LLC to manage her property and to further the legacy

Ciccone, welcomed him with open arms. While on the drive from the airport to his uncle’s home, a tractor-trailer truck drove

She became a trustee of La Scuola d’Italia from 2006 to 2008 and sat on the national board of NOIAW

In 1982, what Bruno envisioned professionally became a reality. Working in transportation was also the means through which

left by her parents.

past, and it was then that Bruno envisioned a future that would someday involve trucking.

(National Organization of Italian American Women) from 2008 to 2012. Having graduated Fordham University,

he met his beautiful wife, Ann Marie. Bruno and Ann Marie were married in 1987. Bruno’s steadfast openness to learn, spirit of

Today, she sits on the Board of Trustees of John Cabot University in Rome, the Board of the Ligurians in the

In 1992, he met his business partner Bob Kelly, and today they own Roadtex Transportation, with 1,500 employees and 31

she became a member of their Board of Visitors for the years 2012 and 2013.

World in New York, the American Society of the Italian Legion of Merit— who bestowed the title of Cavaliere Della Repubblica upon her—and the American Foundation of Savoy Orders—who knighted her a Dama di Commanda.

She now resides in Florida, where she supports Il Circolo and UNICO, along with a wonderful Jewish

organization named JAFCO.

My fondest memories are with my family celebrating holidays. Whether it was Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, or just a plain Sunday, we all got together to eat a big meal at 4pm and play cards afterwards. Summers in Genoa, Sardinia, and Trent were magical, and I love going back yearly.

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gratitude, commitment to sacrifice, and appreciation of where he came from paved the road to his success.

terminals nationwide. The American Dream would not be complete until Bruno would become an American citizen. He did so with pride. Bruno is humbly grateful for the opportunity to achieve what he has and owes it all to his parents.

The American Dream is better fulfilled when you can share it with the people you love. Behind every great man is a great

woman; both Bruno and Ann Marie continue to build a life of love and family, guided by Italian traditions, and share the Italian way of life with their beautiful children Daniella, Christopher, and Nicholas.

Sitting at the dinner table every evening with my family, I learned the most important lessons that life brings our way. Listening to my parents recount about the hardships of their workday indirectly taught me that success in life comes through hard work and sacrifice. Steadfast Italian traditions taught me that keeping your feet firmly grounded keeps you true to yourself. At my family table I was also able to freely convey my thoughts and feelings, which properly set my moral compass. I learned that love and kindness are universally understood, no matter what your customs are. Assimilation was easy for us because we appreciated the opportunity to grow. It strikes a tender chord when I think that many families today do not have dinner together at their kitchen table, as I did. I owe all that I am to the lessons I learned as a boy. I am grateful to God and my family. They are the cornerstones onto which I have built my life. I am proud to be an Italian American and to continue our beautiful customs.

Thank you for the honor of sharing this with you.

‘Non puoi insegnare niente a un uomo. Puoi solo aiutarlo a scoprire ció che ha dentro di sé.’

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The Frank &Angela Donio Family

Lieutenant General (Ret.) Raymond Palumbo

The 2019 SIF Humanitarian Award

Partner & C o - F ounder V enturi S olutions L L C

THE 2019 SIF AWARD FOR COURAGE & PATRIOTISM Ray Palumbo is a respected national security leader, team-builder,

and problem solver who has dedicated his public life to improving the safety and security of the United States and our allies. Today, he supports a broad range of public, private, and philanthropic organizations as the

co-founder and senior partner of Venturi Solutions LLC, a consultancy

that delivers winning solutions in the aerospace, defense, and intelligence industries.

Frank G. Donio

Angela L. Donio

Fr. Frank S. Donio

John S. Donio

A retired 3-star U.S. Army general, master aviator, and parachutist,

James M. Donio

Ray led conventional and special operations forces during peacetime

The Frank and Angela Donio Family has demonstrated what it means to build communities that thrive. The family traces their

and in combat. He completed his 34-year military career as Director

Century in Hammonton, New Jersey, a town that boasts one of the highest percentages of Italian Americans in the United States.

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Task Force, two central

roots to the Molise, Basilicata, Campania, and Calabria regions of Southern Italy. Their story in America begins in the late 19

During more than five decades of marriage, Angela and Frank were involved in a wide variety of philanthropic efforts, supporting religious organizations, educational initiatives, and civic change—setting a strong example for their sons: Frank, John, and Jim.

While raising the boys into capable men, Angela has been a passionate advocate for revitalization and conservation. A member

of the National Trust for Historic Preservation since 1978, the transformational growth of Downtown Hammonton is the direct

result of her leadership. Until his death in 2011, Frank, a trailblazer in the produce industry, found time to quietly support

individuals and organizations, asking nothing in return. Catholic religious communities of Sisters were among his favorite groups, ensuring that they had what they needed “to do their good work.”

Their eldest son, Father Frank, lives a life in service to the Catholic Church. He is a priest in the Pallottine Fathers and

Brothers, a religious community founded in Rome whose first ministry in the United States was to serve Italian immigrants.

Father Frank affects change through innovations in faith education, urban pastoral work, and spiritual mentorship.

John is a hotelier leading the resurgence of Wildwood, New Jersey. He supports the arts and spearheads efforts for the

homeless and underprivileged in Cape May and Atlantic Counties. John continues the family legacy of philanthropy with his son Frank, his daughter Ella, and his fiancé, Jeanene.

Jim has focused his attention in the last 25 years on the renaissance of Hammonton, including his founding and leadership of

the Eagle Theatre. A recent recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Jefferson Award for his community service, Jim and his wife, Kelly, include their three children, Matthew, Juliet, and Amelia in their volunteer work, shaping the future for which Angela and Frank laid the groundwork.

Defense Department positions that delivered policy, budgets, programs, and critical intelligence collection and

analysis systems to war-fighters around the globe. He is currently a board director of CAE-Mission Solutions Inc., Systematic Inc., W.S. Darley & Co., and Actifio Federal, Inc. He also advises a range of leading defense

companies whose products and services contribute to U.S. national security and the welfare of men and women in uniform.

Ray’s philanthropic passion is committed to improving the well-being of our nation’s military veterans, first

responders, and their families. As such, he serves as Director on the boards of Quality of Life-Plus and the Boulder Crest Foundation, non-profit organizations that deal with seen and unseen wounds, respectively.

Ray has a B.S. degree in engineering from West Point, an M.S. in administration from Central Michigan

University, and an M.S. in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He is a graduate of the British Higher Command and Staff course at the British Defense College in Shrivenham, England.

Ray is married to the former Alice Sweet from El Paso, Texas. They have four grown children and five

grandchildren and currently reside outside Washington, D.C.

My great-grandparents left the mountains of Abruzzo in the early 1900s to settle in a small coal town in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania. They brought with them their faith in God, a generous dose of guts and grit, and dreams of building a better life. Those qualities became the special sauce that shaped the Palumbo family of today – a humble, hard-working

“To whom much is given, much shall be required.” – (Luke 12:48)

family built upon the love of God, patriotism, and an ethic of altruistic service to others.

These words have emboldened the work and lives of our family since they first came from Italy to America.

Our story is one of humble beginnings, consistent and persistent work, building businesses, and strengthening communities, always in pursuit of giving back. Devotion to St. Jude, the Blessed Mother, and The Rosary inspire one of our most cherished family traditions. For generations we have participated in the procession of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, in Hammonton, New Jersey, the centerpiece of the nation’s longest running Italian American festival.

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for Defense for Intelligence where he simultaneously led the Pentagon’s

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I am so blessed to be part of this family and very proud of our Italian-American heritage.

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Admiral Edmund P. Giambastiani

The 2019 SIF National Leadership Grant Donors T h e S ons of I ta ly F ou n dat ion D eeply T h a n k s SIF P er pet ua l S c hol a r s h i p D onor s

U nited S tates N avy ( retired )

THE 2019 NELA Gala Honorary Chairman Admiral Giambastiani is a retired United States Navy admiral who

served for 37 years and was the seventh Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2005 to 2007.

Born in Canastota, New York, Admiral Giambastiani attended

the United States Naval Academy, graduating in 1970 with leadership

distinction. He was then assigned to the nuclear submarine force aboard the USS Puffer (SSN-652) and was the 1973 winner of the Fleet

Commander’s Junior Officer Submarine Shiphandling Competition.

the

Giulia Besozzi Scholarship

Giovanni & Emilia Glessi Memorial Scholarship

Boncore Family Scholarship

George L. Graziadio/SIF Scholarship

Cappellotti Family Scholarship

Polo Family Scholarship

Carlone Family Scholarship

Frank D. Privitera Scholarship

Lou Carnesecca Scholarship

Henry F. Salvatori Memorial Scholarship

DeNunzio Family Scholarship

Pietro Secchia Memorial Scholarship

Esposito Family Scholarship

George J. Spatuzza Memorial Scholarship

The Charles Evans Scholarship

Angelo Tomasso Sr. Scholarship

Simone & Bruno Giuffrida Memorial Scholarship

He then commanded NR-1 Deep Submergence Craft—the Navy’s

only nuclear-powered deep-diving ocean engineering and research submarine—and the USS Richard B. Russell (SSN-687).

Admiral Giambastiani also served as Commander, Submarine

T h e SIF

t h a n k s t h e d onor s of t h i s y ea r ’ s a ddi t iona l s c hol a r s h i p s :

The National Italian American Bar Association & Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship The American University in Rome & Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship

Development Squadron 12; Commander, Atlantic Fleet Submarine

Lucille De Lucia and The Bigioni Estate Trust

Force; and Commander, Anti-Submarine and Reconnaissance Forces

Atlantic. He was the Director of Submarine Warfare Division, Senior

The Anthony J. & Eldora B. Perfilio Scholarship for Italian Language

Military Assistant to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. In 2002, he assumed command of the U.S. Joint

The Cellini Lodge Foundation

Forces Command and then became NATO’s first Supreme Allied Commander Transformation.

In 2005, Admiral Giambastiani was appointed the seventh Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the

third naval officer to hold the position. He retired from the U.S. Navy in 2007. During his highly decorated

THE CHARLES EVANS SCHOLARSHIP

military service, Admiral Giambastiani received 12 Distinguished Service medals. He is most proud, however, of his 19 unit awards because they recognize the accomplishments of the entire team.

For the tenth year, the Sons of Italy Foundation® (SIF) is proud to award

Admiral Giambastiani is the first Honorary Chairman of the NELA Gala.

The Charles Evans Scholarship, a perpetual scholarship funded by an endowment from the Charles Evans Foundation.

My family on both sides are Italian Americans. On my father’s side, my great-grandfather came to America

A successful businessman, U.S. veteran, and philanthropist, Charles Evans co-

from Lucca in Tuscany in the 1870s. His son, my grandmother, and father were all born in New York

founded the fashion house Evan-Picone and was Executive Producer of the Academy

City or Northern New Jersey. On my mother’s side, both my grandfather and grandmother came from

Award-winning film, “Tootsie.”

Montemarciano in the Marche region in the early 1900s. Although they lived a short distance from one

Mr. Evans crusaded for causes close to his heart, namely fire detection safety and

another in Italy, they never met until living in Canastota, New York. These were all hardworking Italian

Alzheimer’s disease research, and served as National Director of the Alzheimer’s

Americans who instilled strong family values, a sense of the heart, and soul of American exceptionalism

Association. The SIF is grateful to the Charles Evans Foundation and Linda Munson

and burning desire to have their children and grandchildren educated at the highest levels.

Rothkopf for having made this perpetual scholarship possible.

Charles Evans (1926-2007)

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The 2019 SIF National Leadership Grant Recipients

The 2019 SIF National Leadership Grant Recipients

VICTORIA VOTINO The National Italian American Bar Association & Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship Hometown: Santa Clara, CA School: Pepperdine University School of Law – Malibu, CA

• Chosen by her peers her first year of law school for the Evan T. Carthen Award for Inspirational Leadership, which was created to honor a former student who passed away by awarding a current student who shows “leadership through example by putting others before herself, befriending the invisible person, and finding humor every day” • Received her Bachelor of Arts degree in three years while serving as the chair of her student senate and as a residential assistant • Had the honor of serving as the Miss America Organization’s Miss Santa Clara in 2017—a role that afforded her the opportunity to partake in events that supported elderly members of the community, people fighting cancer, foster children, and children with health concerns

JULIANA CONDOLEO The Lucille De Lucia and the Bigioni Estate Scholarship Hometown: Lynbrook, NY School: Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD

• Selected as a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar for the research project entitled “Investigating the Novel Role of the Activated Cdc-42 Associated Tyrosine Kinase (ACK1) in Learning and Memory in a Drosophila melanogaster Model” • Named a National Merit Finalist for her high academic performance and score on the PSAT and SAT • Chosen as an All-State Flutist and participated in the New York State School Music Association All-State Symphonic Band

RACHEL MILKE The Henry F. Salvatori Memorial Scholarship Hometown: North Huntingdon, PA School: University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA

• Founded a fundraiser to support two local organizations dedicated to fighting childhood brain cancer • Participated in an internship where she taught Spanish to elementary school students • Played Junior Olympic Volleyball, lettered in two varsity sports, was captain of both teams, and qualified for the PIAA Track and Field State Championship meet

CAROLINE RIZZO The Pietro Secchia Memorial Scholarship Hometown: Kennebunk, ME School: Northeastern University – Boston, MA

• Worked as an AmeriCorps Member with Jumpstart her freshman year of college to help provide language, literacy, and social-emotional programming for preschool children from under-resourced communities • Competes as a member of the Women’s Alpine Ski Team at Northeastern, who placed 6th in the nation this spring • Serves as a Peer Mentor and Team Leader with the Northeastern Alliance of Civically Engaged Students

SOFIA ANTOLINI The American University of Rome/Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship Hometown: New York, NY School: The American University of Rome – Rome, Italy

· Volunteers at March to the Top Foundation, which is dedicated to building houses, hospitals, schools, and more for children and adults in Kenya, Africa · Volunteers at Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, an animal rescue shelter where people bring hurt, lost, and estranged dogs, who are cared for until they find a new home · Was a flower girl in Italy at Chiesa di Santo Stefano (Church of Saint Stephen) on the island of Capri

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GABBY LUPOLA The Anthony J. & Eldora B. Perfilio Scholarship for Italian Language Hometown: Oceanside, CA School: Pomona College – Claremont, CA

• Received a scholarship from the North County Italian Association her senior year • Currently works as a paid intern for the Asian American Resource Center on her campus for the 2018-2019 school year • Will be researching Environmental History and Ethnography in Hawaii and Guam this summer

NICHOLAS VERNICE The Cellini Lodge Foundation Scholarship Hometown: Garden City, NY School: Weill Cornell Medical College – New York, NY

• Graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Dartmouth College with High Honors in Biology and a Minor in International Studies • Served in various roles over four years as a member of The Dartmouth Sings A Cappella Group, and sang at the White House for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, at the 74th and 75th Annual Pearl Harbor Commemoration Events, and on the set of CONAN • Authored four publications and two abstracts, and will be presenting his third abstract examining the adverse health effects of punitive immigration laws in the United States at The Migration Conference in Bari, Italy, in June 2019

SOPHIA DORT The Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship Hometown: Vienna, VA School: Duke University – Durham, NC

• Embarked on a pilgrimage with school chorus to Florence, Orvieto, and Rome, and sang in three churches, including the Orvieto Cathedral • Won first place nationally in Latin dramatic interpretation and in Latin oration at the National Junior Classical League convention • Achieved perfect scores on the SAT, ACT, and PSAT

ANTHONY BIBBO The Charles Evans Scholarship

Hometown: Pasadena, MD School: Villanova University – Villanova, PA

• Created board game “Model Citizen” based on United States Civics and Citizenship Test content to increase civic literacy (U.S. Copyright granted 2017) • Interpretation and Education Volunteer at National Park Service Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, which includes an independent presentation of 30-minute Ranger Talks about StarSpangled Banner; received 2019 Flag House Scholarship Award from the Star Spangled Banner Flag House • Eagle Scout, Senior Patrol Leader, and Order of the Arrow Scouting Honor Society Member; awarded American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year at Post, County, and District levels; Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Eagle Scout of the Year at Post and District levels (to date)

JULIA CALDROPOLI The 2019 National Education & Leadership Award Hometown: Tarrytown, NY School: Cornell University – Ithaca, NY

• Earned 8 awards—including 2 Gold Keys—in the Scholastic Art & Writing Competition for individual drawings and paintings; recognized for her art portfolio that consists of portraits in oil pastels • Selected as one of 20 high school seniors from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico to participate in the BASF Science Academy, a program that combines chemistry and marketing • Won two awards in the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium for her astrophysics research using data from the Fermi telescope, named for the Italian physicist Enrico Fermi; her current research, titled “Correlating Radio and Gamma Ray Outbusts in Relativistic Blazar Jets”, aims to find the relationship between gamma-ray and radio wave emission outside of the Milky Way galaxy 31 s t A n n ua l NEL A G a l a

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Joe Mantegna

Michael Amante Featured Performer

Master of Ceremonies

A Tony and Emmy award-winning American actor, producer, writer, and director,

Joe Mantegna has more than 40 years of performance experience, earning him a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame.

He is best known for roles in box-office hits such as David Mamet’s highly acclaimed

House of Games, as well as Forget Paris, and CARS 2. He currently stars in the CBS television series Criminal Minds.

As father of an autistic daughter, Mr. Mantegna has spent many years helping autistic

children and families through ACT for Military Families, Easter Seals, and Autism Speaks.

He has received numerous awards for his work with various veterans’ and military

organizations and the USO. In 2012, he was named the National Spokesperson for the

campaign to build the United States Army Museum in Ft. Belvoir, Virginia.

This year marks his 17th consecutive year as host of the National Memorial Day Concert and the SIF NELA Gala.

Help Our Military Heroes

The Sons of Italy Foundation is pleased to welcome tenor Michael Amante in what

is his 12th performance at the annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.

Mr. Amante is affectionately known as “the Prince of High C’s” for his ability to hit

and hold one of the highest notes of a tenor’s voice. Apart from his high C’s, his repertoire

showcases his vocal versatility. It includes pieces from The Phantom of the Opera; Puccini’s La Boheme; rock and gospel songs; and classic Neapolitan ballads.

A classically trained opera performer, Mr. Amante has had leading roles in Madama

Butterfly, La Traviata, and La Boheme. He has also performed in staged versions of Grease, West Side Story, and Jesus Christ, Superstar.

Michael Amante’s singing has drawn praise from the late great tenors Luciano

Pavarotti and Franco Corelli as well as Tony Bennett, President Bill Clinton, and Regis

Philbin. He has appeared on national and international television, receiving an Emmy nomination.

The New York Times writes, “The swashbuckling Italian tenor exhibits both the voice and the charisma of a crossover star.”

Maria Fassio Pignati

“Improving the lives of our wounded military heroes through mobility and independence”

Help Our Military Heroes (HOMH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing fully equipped, adaptive minivans

to our country’s most severely wounded, injured, and ill service men and women who sustained their injuries while on active duty.

HOMH works with each individual to provide a minivan with modifications specific to his or her needs. It was co-founded in 2009 by Laurie (née Serricchio) and Ted Hollander and Marybeth Vandergrift. Since then, they have awarded 115 adaptive minivans to deserving veterans.

This year, on April 6, the Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) presented a donation of $20,000 to HOMH. This year’s donation

marks the fifth time in six years that the Sons of Italy Foundation has donated at least $20,000 to HOMH. The donation provided

a minivan grant for USArmy CPT Gavin White (ret), a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2011.

Featured Performer

Performing the American and Italian national anthems for us this evening is soprano

Maria Fassio Pignati of San Francisco. She earned a B.A. in Music with a minor in Italian prior to studying voice and piano at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Ms. Fassio Pignati is a well-known soprano soloist who performs in various venues

and is a member of the “Trio Amore” opera ensemble, which has recorded a collection of classic Italian love songs entitled La Vita Bella. She has also performed the National Anthem for the San Francisco Giants, Oakland Athletics, and Golden State Warriors.

Active in the Italian-American community for more than forty years, Ms. Fassio

Pignati is a past state president of the Sons and Daughters of Italy’s Grand Lodge of

California, which consists of lodges in California, southern Oregon, and western Nevada.

She also serves on the boards of several organizations, including the San Francisco Columbus Day Celebration, Italian Community Services, and is a co-opted member of COM.IT.ES San Francisco, representing the Sons and Daughters of Italy.

For her long-standing service to the Bay Area’s Italian community, Maria Fassio Pignati was recently made a Commander

of the Italian Republic with the title “Commendatore dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia.” Maria has been performing at the The Help Our Military Heroes and Sons of Italy Foundation van presentation to USArmy CPT Gavin White (ret).

Representing the Sons of Italy Foundation was SIF Trustee Emeritus Frank J. Panessa.

USArmy CPT Gavin White (ret) in his modified van with his service dog, Stuart.

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NELA Gala since 2010.

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NELA Highlights

Honorees &Special Guests Five women trailblazers at the 2007 NELA

President George W. Bush addresses the 2004 NELA The 2018 NELA scholarship winners (L. to R.) Madeleine Albright, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Geraldine Ferraro, Nancy Pelosi and Mary Landrieu (L. to R.) SIF President Joseph J. DiTrapani, FIAT/ Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne, and OSDIA Past National President Vincent Sarno at the 2013 NELA

The SIF proudly hosts many veterans at the 2018 NELA

NIAID (NIH) Director Dr. Anthony Fauci accepts the Special Recognition Award for Science and Medicine at the 2015 NELA

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Dr. Michael J. Sofia, who discovered the cure for Hepatitis C, accepts the Humanitarian Award at the 2018 NELA

AIDS & Cancer Researcher Dr. Robert Gallo Accepts the 2002 NELA Award

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Tony Bennett performs at the 2003 NELA

SIF Trustee Joseph Cicippio (right) and his wife Elham with SIF President Joseph DiTrapani (middle), Matthew McCarville (left), and Karen McCarville at the 2017 NELA

(L. to R.) New York State Representative Susan Molinari, Glen Funicello, OSDIA Past National President Joanne Strollo, Annette Funicello, and OSDIA Past National President Peter Zuzolo at the 1993 NELA

SIF President Joseph Sciame with Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S. Armando Varricchio at the 2016 NELA.

U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia talks with scholarship recipient Candice Aitken at the 1991 NELA

Singer of the United States and Italian Anthems, Maria Fassio Pignati, with the Takoma Park Police Department Honor Guard at the NELA ballroom at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.

About 400 guests attend annually

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Music Producer Quincy Jones introduces Honoree President Bill Clinton at the 2010 NELA

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(L. to R.) Justice Samuel Alito, Secretary Leon Panetta, and retired OSDIA Executive Director Philip Piccigallo at the 2014 NELA

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s CULTURAL PRESERVATION & IMMIGRATION HISTORY

The Sons of Italy Foundation

Making a Difference

The SIF’s Garibaldi-Meucci Museum is a center of Italian culture on Staten Island, NY. The SIF also contributes to preserving Italian immigrant documents at the Immigration History Research Center in Minnesota and now has partnered with Ancestry.com to broaden its impact.

The Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) is the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons and Daughters

of Italy in America (OSDIA). Established in 1959, the SIF has given nearly $165 million to

scholarships, philanthropy, medical research, cultural projects, disaster relief efforts, veterans’ causes and other special projects.

Find the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum on Facebook @GaribaldiMeucciMuseum!

SCHOLARSHIPS, EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES & SUPPORT

Every year, the SIF and OSDIA lodges give scholarships to promising ItalianAmerican students. Since 1959, the SIF has given nearly $65 million in scholarships at the local, state and national levels.

HONORING AND ASSISTING THOSE WHO PROTECT AND SERVE The SIF helped fund the creation of the World War II Memorial and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. In recent years, the SIF has given tens of thousands of dollars to various groups that support veterans’ causes, including the Wounded Warrior Project, the Gary Sinise Foundation, Help Our Military Heroes, and Luke’s Wing’s, among others.

MEDICAL RESEARCH The SIF supports research to help national charities find cures for the most devastating diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and Cooley’s anemia.

Photo Courtesy of Mark Fischer

Photo Courtesy of Jeremy Hiebert

DISASTER RELIEF The SIF donates generously to disaster relief in the U.S. and abroad. With the help of State Grand Lodges, Local Filial Lodges, and individual donors, the SIF raised $200,000 to aid relief efforts for the Central Italy earthquake that struck in August 2016. This past year, the SIF donated those funds to the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, who is heading a project to rebuild a kindergarten and elementary school in Muccia, a town located in the Marche region.

The SIF supports the establishment and restoration of U.S. monuments, including the Statue of Liberty, the World War II Memorial, and National 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.

Photo Courtesy of Amy Dreher

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The Sons of Italy Foundation

The Sons of Italy Foundation

Contribution Highlights

The SIF Award Recipients 1989-2018

1959 Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) established as the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, the nation’s oldest and biggest organization for people of Italian heritage.

1964 $25,000 for flood victims in Belluno, Italy

1966 $200,000 for flood victims in Florence and Venice

The Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) Awards are given annually at the SIF’s NELA Gala held every May in Washington, D.C. 2018

The DelGrosso Family

Geno Auriemma

Lawrence “Pete” Peduzzi

2014

1967 Designates March of Dimes as one of its official charities and donates more than $14 million over the next two decades

Owners & Founders, DelGrosso Foods National Education & Leadership Award

1974 Names Cooley’s Anemia Foundation as an official charity. To date, donated nearly $3 million.

President & Founder, Peduzzi Associates Ltd. Excellence in Business Award

1968 $127,000 for earthquake victims in Sicily

1976 $217,000 for earthquake victims in Friuli, Italy

1981 $3 million in funds plus medicine and clothing to victims of the 1980 Irpinia earthquake in southern Italy 1985 Contributes to restoration of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

Dr. Michael J. Sofia

Chief Scientific Officer, Arbutus Biopharma, Inc. Humanitarian Award 2017

1987 $30,000 to earthquake victims in Mexico

The Hon. Jessica Garfola Wright

1989 Holds first National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) event in Washington, DC

Head Coach, University of Connecticut Women’s Basketball Special Award for Excellence in Sports Leadership

The Hon. Leon Panetta Former U.S. Secretary of Defense

Former Director, CIA Former White House Chief of Staff National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

U.S. Senator Christopher J. Dodd

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Motion Picture Association of America Former United States Senator (CT) Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

1990 $50,000 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC

Major General (Ret.) Award for Courage and Patriotism

1998 $50,000 to Barbara Sinatra Hospital for Abused Children

U.S. Navy (Retired) National Education & Leadership Award

Harry Lombardo

2004 $100,000 to establish a World War II memorial in Washington, DC

President & CEO, Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind Humanitarian Award

Lt. Gen. Flora D. Darpino

1993 Names the Alzheimer’s Association one of its official charities and donates $1 million over the next 10 years.

Rear Admiral Margaret DeLuca “Peg” Klein

2003 $66,000 to establish an Advanced Placement program in Italian; Gave additional $50,000 in 2010 to re-instate the program.

Anthony J. Cancelosi

2005 $15,000 to the Tsunami Emergency Relieve effort in Asia

2016

2006 $35,000 for Hurricane Katrina Relief

Joseph M. Mattone, Sr.

2007 $100,000 to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in NYC 2007 $100,000 to Coaches vs. Cancer

2010 The Charles Evans Foundation, formed by Evan-Picone fashion house co-founder Charles Evans, selects the SIF to receive a quarter-million-dollar endowment to establish the perpetual Charles Evans Scholarship.

2010 $100,000 to build the World Trade Center Museum & Memorial in New York City 2010 $10,000 scholarship to Medal of Honor recipient Salvatore Giunta

2011 $235,000 to help rebuild the Fondazione Il Cireneo Onlus per L’Autismo, a center for autistic children, destroyed by the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake.

2011 Pledges a second $1 million contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association

2013 $25,000 to Super Storm Sandy Relief; $15,000 to the Gary Sinise Foundation; and $50,000 since 2008 to the Columbus Citizens Foundation

39th Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Army Special Award for Military Justice 2013

Chairman & CEO, The Mattone Group National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Robert F. Corrao

Philanthropist & Community Leader National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Sergio Marchionne

Mary Ann Pessolano Mattone, RN/MPH

2008 $100,000 over past four years to the Rienzi Foundation to cure deafness through cochlear implants

International President, Transport Workers Union Humanitarian Award

Dr. Condoleezza Rice

66th Secretary of State Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Nicholas E. Calio

President & CEO, Airlines for America Award for Excellence in Business

Paul Rinaldi

President, National Air Traffic Controllers Association Humanitarian Award

Chairman & CEO, Ski TV Network National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) Chairman & CEO, Chrysler Group LLC, CEO, FIAT S.p.A Award for Excellence in Global Business

Gen. Colin L. Powell (USA Ret.)

65th U.S. Secretary of State & 12th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Gary Sinise

Actor, Activist, & Founder, the Gary Sinise Foundation Award for Courage & Patriotism 2012

2014 $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes

2015

Hillary Rodham Clinton

2016 $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes; $10,000 to the Gary Sinise Foundation; $10,000 to K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc.

Chief of Staff, United States Army National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Armand Sabitoni

2018 $25,000 to Help Our Military Heroes

General President, Laborers’ International Union of North America Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

General Secretary, Laborers International Union of North America Humanitarian Award

Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH Special Recognition Award for Science & Medicine

President, Mediterranean Shipping Company, Inc. Award for Excellence in Business

2015 SIF/OSIA gives more than $300,000 to Alzheimer’s Association; Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, Inc.; and Cooley’s Anemia Foundation.

2017 Raised disaster relief funds for those affected by Hurricane Harvey and Irma; $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes

2018 $100,000 to rebuild kindergarten and elementary school in Muccia (Marche region), destroyed by the 2016 Central Italy earthquake 2019 A second $100,000 to rebuild kindergarten and elementary school in Muccia (Marche region), destroyed by the 2016 Central Italy earthquake 2019 $20,000 to Help Our Military Heroes

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Gen. Raymond T. Odierno Terry O’Sullivan

Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. Alfred Grasso

President & CEO, The MITRE Corporation Humanitarian Award 31 s t A n n ua l NEL A G a l a

U.S. Secretary of State Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Claudio Bozzo

Gen. Peter Pace, U.S. Marine Corps. (Ret.) 16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Award for Courage & Patriotism

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2011

2007

Andy Granatelli

1997

Founder & Proprietor, Casa Piena Vineyard Former Owner & CEO, San Francisco 49ers National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Executive VP, IBM National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Richard L. Trumka

Chairman, Universal Forest Products, Inc. & Former U.S. Ambassador to Italy National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Carmen Policy

Jack Reed

U.S. Senator from Rhode Island Veteran, U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Pier F. Guarguaglini

Chairman & CEO, Finmeccanica SpA Award for Excellence in Global Business

Steven Nardizzi, Esq.

Executive Director, Wounded Warrior Project Special Award for Courage & Patriotism 2010

Lewis C. Merletti

Former Director, United States Secret Service National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

President Bill Clinton

Founder, William J. Clinton Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Capt. Anthony Odierno (U.S. Army, Ret.) Manager, Stadium Operations, NY Yankees Special Award for Courage & Patriotism 2009

Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

Vice President of the United States Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Arthur J. Gajarsa

Federal Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals Lifetime Achievement Award in Jurisprudence

Robert A. Scardelletti

International President, Transportation Communications Union/IAM Humanitarian Award

Mary Ann Esposito

Host/Creator, “Ciao Italia” PBS TV Lifetime Achievement Award in the Culinary Arts 2008

Joseph Plumeri

Chairman & CEO, Willis Group National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Steve Wynn

Chairman & CEO, Wynn Resorts Award for Global Vision & Philanthropy

Michael Petruzzello

Founder & Managing Partner, Qorvis Communications Award Excellence in Business

Alfred Rotondaro, PhD

Sr. Fellow, Center for American Progress Humanitarian Award

Nicholas Donofrio Geraldine Ferraro

Former Congresswoman from New York Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service

Frank Giordano

Automotive designer, driver & engineer Lifetime Achievement Award Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO Humanitarian Award 2002

President, Union League of Philadelphia Humanitarian Award

Robert Gallo, M.D.

Making A Difference Award

Martin J. Maddaloni

AIDS & Cancer researcher National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

The Rienzi Foundation 2006

General President, United Association Humanitarian Award

President & Founder, Rienzi & Sons National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Actor Excellence in Media Award

Michael Rienzi

Franco Nuschese

President, Georgetown Entertainment Group, LLC Excellence in Business

Robert E. Juliano

Chairman, Robert E. Juliano Associates Humanitarian Award

Joe Mantegna

2001

John F. Mariani

Chairman, Banfi Vintners National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Robert A. Georgine

2005

Chairman, President & CEO, ULLICO, Inc. Humanitarian Award

Chairman, National Endowment For the Arts National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Television Host Lifetime Achievement Award

Dana Gioia

Joseph Battipaglia CIO, Ryan Beck & Co. Business Award

Regis Philbin

President & CEO, America’s Health Insurance Plans Lifetime Achievement in Management

Joseph G. Procacci

CEO, Procacci Brothers Sales Corp.

OSIA Centennial Award

Chairman, UBS Financial Services National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Silvio Berlusconi

Actress & Businesswoman Humanitarian Award

Former President & General Merchandise Manager, Kmart Corporation National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Tony Bennett

John De Gioia

1998

Frances Visco

Former Vice President & General Manager of North American Marketing & Advertising, General Motors Corporation National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

President, Georgetown University Excellence in Academia Award

Phil Guarascio

President, National Breast Cancer Coalition Humanitarian Award

Frank Sinatra

Legendary Entertainer, Producer & Philanthropist Humanitarian Award

2003

Charles Gargano

Joe Paterno

Head Football Coach, Pennsylvania State University National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Alfred A. Checchi

Former Co-Chairman, Northwest Airlines Corporation National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1995

Joseph E. Antonini

President, JEA Enterprises, Inc. National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1994

The Honorable Louis J. Freeh

Senior Vice Chairman of Administrative & Legal Affairs, MBNA America, Inc. National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1993

1992

Connie Stevens

Legendary Entertainer Humanitarian Award

Prime Minister of Italy International Leadership Award

1996

Racing Legend & Business Entrepreneur National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Andrew A. Giancamilli

Joseph Grano

Vice President/Former Manager, LA Dodgers Humanitarian Award

Annette Funicello

1999

2004

Tommy Lasorda

2000

Mario Andretti

Karen Ignagni

Peter F. Secchi

Entertainer National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Dr. Anthony S. Fauci

Director, the National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases at the NIH National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1991

The Honorable Antonin Scalia

U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1990

The Honorable Silvio O. Conte

U.S. Congressman from Massachusetts National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) 1989

Lou Carnesecca

St. John’s University Head Basketball Coach (Ret.) National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

Chairman, Empire State Development Corp.

National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)

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The Sons of Italy Foundation

The Sons of Italy Foundation

Board and Commit ees

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Resource Persons

Vera Ferrara Girolami Chairman

Brian Andzik John J. Costa Robert M. Ferrito Antonio Sestito

Joseph Sciame President

Nancy Di Fiore Quinn Vice President Joseph A. Russo Vice President

Tony Bisceglia Anderson Financial Secretary Thom A. Lupo Treasurer

Philip J. Privitera, Esq. Recording Secretary President Emeritus Paul S. Polo Vincent Sarno Trustees Philip R. Boncore, Esq. Joseph Cicippio Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio Salvatore Lanzilotta Carlo Matteucci Anthony Panaggio, Jr. Maria Fassio Pignati Marianne Principe-O’Neil Dominic Pucci Joanne L. Strollo

S taff &Consultants

NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF

CONSULTANTS Dan Ashwell Printing Solutions, Inc. Printing

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center Catering

Doc. Events Event Planners

David Keith Photography Photography

Emily Heinrich Administrative Director

Erik Duran Duran Floral Design, LLC Flowers

Diane Vincent Graphic Design

Adam Jacobs Bookkeeper

Eidolon Films Video Production

Joseph J. DiTrapani Chief Operating Officer

2019 SIF SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE Michele Ment, Chair Robert Amante Catena Spiritosanto 2019 SIF SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION CONSULTANTS Stephanie Haines Bowdoin College, Maine

Miles Ryan Fisher Editor-in-Chief, Italian America Magazine Editor, NELA Gala Journal

Carly Jerome Director of Programming & Operations

Gene Logan American University, Washington, D.C.

Lucio D’Andrea President Emeritus, The Abruzzo & Molise Heritage Society Washington, D.C. Edvige D’Andrea The Abruzzo & Molise Heritage Society Washington, D.C.

Frank Joseph Schiro National Italian American Bar Association

Trustee Emeritus Angelo R. Bianchi, Esq. Frank J. Panessa

O r der S ons

Linda Anderson (C) Tony J. Bisceglia Anderson (C) John C. Barbo Gregory A. Bianchini Mary Bianchini Philip R. Boncore, Esq. Robert Bongo John J. Burzichelli Nick Burzichelli Richard R. Della Croce Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio (C) Joseph J. DiTrapani (C) Carmelina Ferrito Robert Ferrito Rev. R. Adam Forno (C) Verne Foss (C) Karen Gallo Michael Gallo Gloria Garibaldi Hon. Al Girolami (C) Vera Ferrara Girolami (C) Biagio Isgro (C) Elia R. Kress “C” denotes Charter Member

and

D augh t er s

Gold Members

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(as of May 1, 2019)

Salvatore Lanzilotta Lynn Lawrence-Murphy (C) Tom LiPuma Frank LoCicero III Thom A. Lupo (C) Ernest Magliato Marie Marsalli Saverio “Sam” Mastandrea Carlo Matteucci (C) Michele Ment William Murphy Anthony Naccarato Arlene M. Nunziati (C) Frank J. Panessa (C) Robert Paniccia Anthony J. Perfilio (C) Eldora B. Perfilio (C) Maria Fassio Pignati (C) Michael G. Polo (C) Paul S. Polo (C) Marianne Principe-O’Neil (C) Francis D. Privitera Dr. Thomas S. Pruse (C) Nancy A. Di Fiore Quinn (C)

Anita Lombardi Riley (C) Walter Sonny Robak Dominic A. Rossi Joseph A. Russo (C) Pauline Russo Frank Sammartano Cristina Santoro Louis Santoro Maria Sanvenero Vincent Sarno (C) Joseph Sciame (C) Antonio Sestito Marieanne Sestito Catena M. Spiritosanto Joanne L. Strollo (C) Sadie Koehler Tamburine Steven Trent Joseph Vallone Amelia Jean Varni Nella Bianca Varni Keith Wilson Vincent Anthony Zaccaria, Sr. Paul Zanobelli

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The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America®

2019 NELA Gala Sponsors

Founded in 1905

Platinum

The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSDIA) is the oldest and largest national

organization for men and women of Italian heritage in the United States. Established to help the early Italian immigrants, today OSDIA is the nation’s leading Italian-American service and advocacy organization. It has a network of thousands of family members in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and has lodges extending across the country and into Canada.

Its programs and benefits include: • ITALIAN AMERICA® MAGAZINE The most widely read magazine in the U.S. for people

Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil – colavita.com facebook.com/colavitaoliveoil

of Italian heritage, Italian America is distributed quarterly to members and includes feature stories, profiles, recipes, book reviews, stories written in Italian, and much more.

• TRAVEL BUREAU Members receive affordable and exclusive tours to Italy and beyond.

• THE GARIBALDI-MEUCCI MUSEUM Once the home of Antonio Meucci, the true inventor of the telephone, and a refuge to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the man who unified Italy, the museum now promotes Italian-American heritage through cultural, artistic, and educational programs and classes.

• ARCHIVES OSDIA supports historical records on our Order and on Italian immigration history through a grant to the University of Minnesota as well as a partnership with Ancestry.com

• THE SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ITALY IN AMERICA BOOK CLUB OSDIA promotes the published work of its members through The Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Book Club on www.osia.org

The Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice® Founded in 1979

The CSJ’s mission is to fight the stereotyping of Italian Americans by the entertainment, advertising, and news industries. It

collaborates with other groups to ensure that people of all races, religions, and cultures are treated fairly.

• The CSJ monitors the entertainment, advertising, and news industries; contacts offending parties by letter and/or

telephone; and encourages other Italian-American organizations, e-mail networks, and concerned individuals to take action as well.

• Through its Positive Image Program, the CSJ regularly informs the media and general public about Italian-American achievements, contributions, history, and culture.

• As part of its Positive Image Program, the CSJ conducts research and produces

studies, teaching tools, pamphlets, exhibits, and other materials on the achievements and contributions of Italian Americans.

OSIA New York Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. - NYSOSIA.ORG

The Charles Evans Foundation Scholarship Presented by Linda Munson Rothkopf 28 T h e S ons

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Gold

Bronze

Admiral Edmund P. Giambastiani

AJ Jersey, Inc/ Crown Lift Trucks.

Congratulations to Bruno from your friends at AJ Jersey, Inc.

Columbus Citizens Foundation

Allied Wealth Partners

Dr. Joseph & Mrs. Elham Cicippio

Alzheimer’s Association

Nicholas M. Donofrio and Guests from MITRE

Genpro, Inc.

The Polo Family

Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, OSIA Charitable and Educational Trust – Benefit Insurance Commission

Vivian Cardia

IBEW Joseph and Carol DiTrapani, Chief Operating Officer, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America

Silver

KZ Transport Inc LA RUSTICHELLA TRUFFLES corp USA Congratulations Bruno. A thousand more days like this!

American Maritime Officers Service Aziz Mamaev

Lau N. Son Produce

Castel Tile, Inc.

Matthew Wierzel and Traffix

Christian Axelson & David Morrisey, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

Naden/Lean, LLC, Jeff Drake, CPA

DelGrosso Foods, Inc.

National Past President Joseph and Pauline Russo

Karen & Robert Kelly: Honoring Bruno Ciacciarelli

NFP

Laborers’ International Union of North America My Italian Family, The No. 1 Source for your Family Roots and Italian Dual Citizenship Support – mytalianfamily.com

Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America National Past Presidents Philip R. Boncore; Frank J. DeSantis; Joseph J. DiTrapani; Daniel J. Longo; Paul S. Polo, Sr.; Joseph A. Russo; Vincent Sarno; Joseph Sciame; Joanne L. Strollo; Peter R. Zuzolo Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America National Vice Presidents Nancy Di Fiore Quinn; Robert A. Bianchi, Esq.; Joseph A. Boncore, Esq.; Michael Polo; Richard R. Della Croce, Esq.

NYS OSIA Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. – Mary Naccarato – “Gift of Sight” Peduzzi Associates, Ltd.

OSDIA Grand Lodge of Florida

Privitera Family Charitable Foundation

OSIA Grand Lodge of New Jersey

Seafarers International Union – Michael Sacco, President – seafarers.org

Transportation Communications Union/IAM

Sons of Italy Foundation Trustees Angelo Bianchi (Emeritus); Philip R. Boncore, Esq.; Joseph Cicippio; Dr. Mark S. DeNunzio; Salvatore Lanzilotta; Carlo Matteucci; Anthony Panaggio, Jr.; Frank J. Panessa (Emeritus); Maria Fassio Pignati; Marianne Principe-O’Neil; Dominic Pucci; Joanne L. Strollo

Venturi Solutions, LLC

Vera Girolami, National President, & Judge Al Girolami

The Frank and Angela Donio Family

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Sponsor Atlantic Stewardship Bank in honor of Bruno Ciacciarelli CH Robinson Worldwide congratulates our strategic partner, Bruno Ciacciarelli, on the Excellence in Business Award!

Edgemont Partners Insurance Consultants

Always moving forward The Ryder Charitable Foundation supports organizations and initiatives that make people and communities safer and improve their quality of life.

Grand Lodge of Connecticut Grand Lodge of IL & WI, Marie Marsalli, President Inserra Supermarkets, Inc.

Ryder is proud to support the Sons of Italy Foundation’s 31st National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.

Italian Welfare League Larry Dwyer – Utility Trailer Sales of NJ Inc LIDO Club MC Cargo, Inc. Nathel & Nathel, Inc Paul Rinaldi NATCA President Ronald Carroccio, CPA, Carroccio Associates CPAs PC Stephanie Haines T Prime Logistics, Inc.

Military Sponsor Thank you to the following individuals and organizations that have sponsored active members of the armed service, veterans, and wounded warriors at this year’s NELA Gala: Alzheimer’s Association Annapolis Order Sons of Italy Lodge #2225 NYS OSIA Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. – Mary Naccarato – “Gift of Sight” Grand Lodge of California Grand Lodge of New Jersey Grand Lodge of New York Grand Lodge of Northwest Grand Lodge of Virginia Help Our Military Heroes Ryder and the Ryder logo are registered trademarks of Ryder System, Inc. Copyright ©2019 Ryder System, Inc.

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Always moving forward

CONGRATULATIONS & SINCERE BEST WISHES

The Ryder Charitable Foundation supports organizations and initiatives that make people and communities safer and improve their quality of life.

Ryder is proud to support the Sons of Italy Foundation’s 31st National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.

New York State Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. Order Sons of Italy in America 2101 Bellmore Avenue  Bellmore, New York 11710-5605 1 (800) 322-OSIA (6742)  Fax: (516) 221-OSIA (6742)

www.nysosia.org

Robert M. Ferrito Foundation President

Ryder and the Ryder logo are registered trademarks of Ryder System, Inc. 34 T h e S ons of I ta ly F ou n dat ion Copyright ©2019 Ryder System, Inc.

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Columbus Citizens Foundation is Proud to Support the

31st Annual National Education & Leadership Award Gala

Hosted by Sons of Italy Foundation And Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy in America CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Admiral Edmund Giambastiani – HONORARY CHAIRMAN HONOREES

Vivian Cardia – NATIONAL EDUCATION & LEADERSHIP AWARD

Bruno Cicciarelli – EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARD

The Frank & Angela Donio Family – HUMANITARIAN AWARD Lieutenant General (ret.) Raymond Palumbo – AWARD FOR COURAGE AND PATRIOTISM PLEASE JOIN US THIS COLUMBUS DAY, OCTOBER 14, 2019, AS WE CELEBRATE THE 75th ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLUMBUS CITIZENS FOUNDATION’S COLUMBUS DAY PARADE – THE LARGEST CELEBRATION OF COLUMBUS IN THE WORLD!

Columbus Citizens Foundation www.columbuscitizensfd.org

To be a part of this historic event, please email jwilson@columbuscitizens.org. For more information on the Columbus Citizens Foundation, please visit www.columbuscitizensfd.org.

The Columbus Citizens Foundation is a non-profit organization best known for organizing New York City’s Columbus Celebration. We are committed to fostering an appreciation of Italian-American culture and heritage nation-wide, and provide scholarship assistance to students of Italian-American descent who are academically gifted but lack financial means.

CCF_Ad_Sons of Italy_7.5w4.75h_2fxgrx.indd 1

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Best Wishes

LIUNA is proud to support the

to the

Sons of Italy Foundation

MANAGED SERVICES

on your

24 X7 HELPDESK SUPPORT

31 AnnuAl nElA GAlA

SONS OF ITALY FOUNDATION

st

and this year’s honorees

TECHNICAL STAFFING CABLING CYBER SECURITY

Vivian Cardia, Bruno Ciacciarelli, The Frank & Angela Donio Family Lieutenant General (Ret.)

Raymond Palumbo

I.T S UPPORT

from the

SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION

9901 Business Parkway,

Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters

Suite K, Lanham

President: Joseph J. Cicippio

31st Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala

and

MICHAEL SACCO President

MD 20706 Tel 301.306.7000

AUGUSTIN TELLEZ Executive Vice President

WWW.TSPEC.COM Making your systems GO

DAVID HEINDEL Secretary-Treasurer

GEORGE TRICKER Vice President Contracts

LABORERS’ INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA

JOSEPH SORESI

TERRY O’SULLIVAN

Vice President Atlantic Coast

ARMAND E. SABITONI

General President

SOIad.indd 1

General Secretary-Treasurer

Congratulations and best wishes to Bruno Ciacciarelli for receiving the 2019 Excellence in Business Award.

Christian Axelson Senior Financial Advisor David Morrisey, CPFA Senior Financial Advisor

4/16/19 2:14 PM

Merrill Lynch 1010 Northern Boulevard Great Neck, NY 11021 516.498.3311

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered

by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and Member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value © 2019 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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Advising companies doing business with the Department of Defense and the United States Government since 1995

www.PeduzziAssociates.com

The Officers and Members of Transportation Communications Union/IAM Are Proud to Support the Sons of Italy 31st Annual Awards Gala Robert A. Scardelletti National President

Congratulations to all the honorees and scholarship recipients!

Stanley L. Boyd

National Secretary-Treasurer

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OSDIA Members benefit from a 10% Discount on all our services since 2002!

Do you ever imagine your Italian Ancestors?

Bring that vision to life with our research services

Do you qualify for Italian Dual Citizenship?

Apply through us today

Call us today to get started!

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For more information, visit www.myitalianfamily.com, or call 1-888-472-0171