23rd Annual NELA
a
b
The Sons of Italy Foundation
T he S ons N ational
of
I taly F oundation
23 rd A nnual E ducation & L eadership A wards G ala
M ay 25, 2011 – T he N ational B uilding M useum – W ashington , D.C.
Table
of
Contents
A Salute to Italy from President Barack Obama. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Greetings from Speaker of the House John Boehner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Welcome from the Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 “Making It Better….” By Philip R. Piccigallo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The 2011 SIF NELA Gala Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The 2011 SIF NELA Gala Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A Tribute to Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SIF Honoree Pier Francesco Guarguaglini. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 SIF Honoree Carmen Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 SIF Honoree Sen. Jack Reed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Wounded Warrior Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 SIF Honoree Steven Nardizzi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 A Legacy of Heroism: Italian American MOH Recipients. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Special Guest SSgt. Salvatore Giunta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The 2011 National Leadership Grant Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Charles Evans Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 The 2011 SIF Scholarship Donors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The SIF Acknowledges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 The Sons of Italy Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Special Guest Presenter Gen. Raymond T. Odierno. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 SIF National Executive Director & CEO Philip R. Piccigallo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The 2011 SIF Gala Master of Ceremonies Joe Mantegna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Featured Performer: Giada Valenti. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Highlights from Past NELAs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 SIF Past Honorees (2010-1989). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 The SIF Board and Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 The SIF Staff and Volunteers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 The Order Sons of Italy in America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 In Memoriam: John Dabbene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 In Memoriam: Geraldine Ferraro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 A Special Thanks: Votto Vines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The 2011 NELA Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 23rd Annual NELA
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A Proclamation from the White House On March 17, Italy celebrates the 150th anniversary of its unification as a single state. On this day, we join with Italians everywhere to honor the courage, sacrifice, and vision of the patriots who gave birth to the Italian nation. At a time when the United States was fighting for the preservation of our own Union, Giuseppe Garibaldi’s campaign for the unification of Italy inspired many around the world in their own struggles, including the 39th New York Infantry, also known as “The Garibaldi Guard.” Today, the legacy of Garibaldi and all those who unified Italy lives on in the millions of American women and men of Italian descent who strengthen and enrich our Nation. Italy and the United States are bound by friendship and common dedication to civil liberties, democratic principles, and the universal human rights our countries both respect and uphold. As we mark this important milestone in Italian history, we also honor the joint efforts of Americans and Italians to foster freedom, democracy, and our shared values throughout the world. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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 March 17, 2011, as a day to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Unification of Italy. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the history of Italian unification and to honor the enduring friendship between the people of Italy and the people of the United States. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.
BARACK OBAMA
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
23rd Annual NELA
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Welcome F rom T he S ons
of
I taly F oundation L eadership
Joseph DiTrapani, Chairman
Vincent Sarno, President
Welcome to the 23rd anniversary of our National Education & Leadership Awards
(NELA) Gala, sponsored by the Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF). The theme of this year’s
NELA Gala is “Making it better, one day at a time.” That message captures the essence of the Sons of Italy. For more than a century, we have been striving to make a difference in people’s lives.
In 1905, when we were founded, we helped Italian immigrants learn English, become
citizens, find work, and weather personal tragedies that put their families in peril. Over the years, our efforts have expanded to Americans stricken by terrible afflictions, including cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, autism and Cooley’s anemia, an incurable blood disorder.
Today, the Sons of Italy also offers assistance to people all over the world when natural
disaster strikes, and has contributed to monuments in the U.S. that honor World War II
veterans, the victims of 9/11 and fallen police officers. We are proud of this record of generosity.
Tonight, we celebrate the achievements of four distinguished honorees whose lives
and careers have made a difference. We also recognize the promise of the future—the
11 young Italian American men and women, including a young war hero, who have received the SIF’s prestigious National Leadership Grants. Chosen for their outstanding
academic performance, school leadership and community involvement, they now will attend some of America’s best universities on scholarship.
And finally, let us raise a glass to toast the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy,
sending our sincerest congratulations to her people on this happy occasion. We hope you enjoy this evening’s festivities and thank you for joining us.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
Making It Better, One Day
at a
Time
B y P hilip R. P iccigallo , P h .D. N ational E xecutive D irector , T he O rder S ons of I taly in A merica & N ational E xecutive D irector & CEO, T he S ons of I taly F oundation
Exactly what does “making it better one day at a time?” mean? Few
institutions, organizations, businesses, groups or individuals have the capability to create seismic differences that have lasting, life-changing, or trend-setting impact. True, huge entities – governments, extremely well
endowed foundations and individuals, NGOs –occasionally take actions or initiate policies that discernibly and indelibly affect the lives of millions, their economic conditions, and living standards. For the most part, however, the vast majority of us must be resigned to having limited ability to effect positive change.
Such is the case with the Sons of Italy Foundation and its parent
organization, the Order Sons of Italy in America. Though the largest
organization of Italian Americans in the world, with 550,000 supporters, nearly 700 chapters and members in all fifty states, the Sons of Italy is
Philip R. Piccigallo with the recipient of the 2010 SIF Lifetime Achievement Award.
still a relatively small voice in a world of 6.9 billion souls. Nevertheless, we have set three core goals as our Mission:
1. To serve as the leading organizational voice on behalf of the nation’s 26 million Italian Americans
2. To preserve and advance Italian culture, notably through the promotion of Italian language studies in the U.S. and travel/study programs in Italy and 3. To improve the health and living conditions of the less fortunate wherever and whenever we can.
For more than a century, we have advanced the aforementioned goals as best we could, albeit often in
relatively small, incremental steps. True, the overall impact of our efforts may be considered minimal when
viewed against the total picture, but that shall not discourage us. As a result of our patience and determination, we have raised and donated a total of nearly $117 million to the following causes: • More than $50 million for academic scholarships
• Approximately $25 million to assist victims of heart disease, MS, Lupus, sight and hearing impairment, cancer, birth defects and autism • Nearly $7 million in emergency international aid for earthquakes in Italy, Mexico and Haiti; famine in Ethiopia; Tsunamis in Southeast Asia and Japan
• Nearly $3 million to find a cure for Cooley’s Anemia
• More than $2 million to combat the scourge of Alzheimer’s’
• Approximately $2 million for special projects honoring America’s veterans and wounded service men and women, fallen law enforcement personnel, victims of terrorism, domestic floods and hurricanes, and the martyrs of 9/11 • Hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund multicultural events and projects
That is what the Sons of Italy has done and will continue to do in order to honor our resolute commitment
to improving our world by making it better, one day at a time. 23rd Annual NELA
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T he S ons O f I taly F oundation 23 rd A nnual NELA G ala M ay 25, 2011
N ational B uilding M useum
W ashington , D.C.
Menu Hors
d’oeuvres
Spicy Grilled Chicken Pizzette Black and Bleu Brochette
Goat Cheese and Fig Funnels
Honey-Almond Crusted Shrimp SALAD
Arugula Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Artichoke with a classic Italian vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon and sea salt ENTREE
Tuscan Roulade of Flank Steak oven-roasted steak stuffed with sun-dried tomato, spinach, pine nuts and prosciutto drizzled with a red wine reduction paired with
Grilled Salmon
served with a roasted tomato relish and
A Timbale of Gorgonzola and Angel Hair Pasta Sauteed Broccolini in Lemon Butter
This Evening’s Featured Wines
Leone D’Oro Prosecco VSAQ
Leone D’Oro Gavi DOCG 2009
Leone D’Oro Marche Sangiovese IGT 2009 Coppola Chardonnay 2009 Donated by Avalon Caterers DESSERT
Italian Lemon Torte & Strawberries with Zabaglione Silver Coffee Service
Gluten/Vegan Entrée Available upon Request The wines served this evening were provided by Votto Vines and bear the “Figli d’Italia” label, which is the Sons of Italy’s for-profit corporation. The line is available nationally in local wine retail shops and restaurants. Orders may be placed online through www.osia.org. 6
The Sons of Italy Foundation
23
rd
A nnual
T he S ons of I taly F oundation N ational E ducation & L eadership A wards G ala
W ednesday , M ay 25, 2011
N ational B uilding M useum
W ashington , D.C.
Program Presentation of the Colors D.C. Metropolitan Police Department Ceremonial Honor Guard
“Fratelli d’Italia” Maria Fassio Pignati “The Star Spangled Banner” President, Grand Lodge of California, Order Sons of Italy in America
Welcome Joe Mantegna Master of Ceremonies 2011 SIF National Scholarship Presentations
Invocation Rev. R. Adam Forno National Chaplain, Order Sons of Italy in America Dinner Served Greetings Joseph J. DiTrapani National President, Order Sons of Italy in America Chairman, Sons of Italy Foundation 2011 National Education & Carmen Policy Leadership Award Founder & Proprietor, Casa Piena Vineyard Former President & CEO, San Francisco 49ers
Presented by: Lewis C. Merletti Senior Vice President, Cleveland Browns 2010 Honoree, SIF National Education & Leadership Award
2011 Lifetime Achievement Award Sen. Jack Reed (Rhode Island) for Public Service Honoree 3rd Term U.S. Senator Veteran, U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division
2011 Award for Excellence Pier Francesco Guarguaglini in Global Business Chairman, Finmeccanica, S.p.A. Musical Interlude Giada Valenti
2011 Special Award for Steven Nardizzi, Esq. Courage & Patriotism Executive Director Wounded Warrior Project
Presented by: Cpt. Anthony K. Odierno (U.S. Army-Ret.) Board Director, Wounded Warrior Project 2010 Honoree, SIF Special Award for Courage & Patriotism
Special Presentation Gen. Raymond T. Odierno Commander, U.S. Joint Forces Command SSgt. Salvatore Giunta Recipient, United States Medal of Honor
Musical Finale: Theresa Sareo “Through A Soldier’s Eyes”
23rd Annual NELA
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A Tribute to Italy
Italy is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, but one of Europe’s youngest nations. Although
its history dates back nearly 3,000 years, it was only 150 years ago that the country was finally re-united under a central government. After Rome fell in the 5th century A.D., the peninsula was invaded and occupied for many centuries by the French, Spanish and Austrians as well as the Catholic Church.
By 1859, Italy was divided into four separate states either ruled or influenced by foreign powers.
In the South, the Bourbons of Spain ruled the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies comprising Sicily, Naples and all of southern Italy. In the center, the Papal States were governed by the Catholic
Church with support from France; while the northern regions of Lombardy, the Veneto and the
Grand Duchy of Tuscany were under the oppressive rule of Austria.
The only independent Italian state was the Kingdom of Sardinia, which included the northern
regions of Piedmont, Savoy, Nice and Liguria, under the rule of the Italian House of Savoy, whose
king, Vittorio Emanuele II, later became the first king of a united Italy. His capital was Turin, in Piedmont.
Italian reunification forces were led by the great general, Giuseppe Garibaldi. After years
of struggle, finally, the foreigners who forced to leave Italy and on March 17, 1861, the United Kingdom of Italy was declared in the spacious Piazza Castello of Turin. Several years later, on September 20,
1870, Italian troops invaded Rome, which
was still held by the Catholic Church. Italy was at last united, but as the Italian
patriot, writer and artist Massimo
D’Azeglio noted, “We have created Italy. Now we must create the Italians.”
A century and a half later, Italy and
her people have taken their rightful place in the pantheon of nations. Italian
history, culture, art and food and wine are fitting reminders of what Italy has given
the world. Tantissimi auguri. Viva l’Italia
e vivano gli Italiani!
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The Sons of Italy Foundation was honored to have the president of Italy, the Hon. Giorgio Napolitano (L), at its NELA gala last year where he was greeted by Joseph DiTrapani, national president of the Order Sons of Italy in America (R) as Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S., Giulio Terzi (C) looks on. The Sons of Italy Foundation
Pier Francesco Guarguaglini, Ph.D. C h a i rm a n , F i nm e cc a n i c a S . p . A . THE 2011 SIF SPECIAL AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN GLOBAL BUSINESS
• Born in Castagneto Carducci (Livorno), Italy, he graduated
with a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Pisa. He continued his studies at University of Pennsylvania where he received a PhD in Electrical Engineering
• From 1963 to 1999 he held various positions in several
major Italian defense companies including Selenia, Officine Galileo, and Oto Melara SpA
• He was named Chief Executive Officer of Fincantieri
Cantieri Navali Italiani S.p.A in May 1999, and served in that that capacity until April 2002
• In May 2002, he was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Finmeccanica SpA, Italy’s leading high-
technology company. He served in this role until May 2011 • During his years as Chief Executive Officer & Chairman, he expanded Finmeccanica’s global presence significantly by winning new business in the U.S., in Russia, in India and in several
African countries.
• During his tenure, Finmeccanica made acquisitions of several companies, including, most notably, the U.S.-based DRS Technologies. This deal represented the largest acquisition ever carried out by a European company in the American defense industry.
• Under his leadership, the company’s revenues and order numbers steadily increased. Finmeccanica grew from a €6 billion company to become the eighth-largest defense and aerospace group in the world.
• Currently, he serves as Chairman of Finmeccanica SpA, a Group with more than 75,000 employees worldwide and revenues of $26.5 Billion USD in 2010.
• He is a member of the General Council and the Executive Committee of “Confindustria” (the Italian Manufacturers’ Association), and a member of the Board of the Council for the United States and Italy
• He is also Adjunct Professor at Imperial Business School of London • In 2004, he received knighthood by The President of Italy as “Cavaliere del Lavoro,” and in 2007 the President of the Republic of France appointed him “Officer de la Légion d’Honneur”
23rd Annual NELA
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Carmen A. Policy A tt o rn e y , F o o tb a l l E x e c u t i v e & F o u n d e r / O wn e r
of
Casa Piena Vineyard
The 2011 SIF National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)
• Born in Youngstown, OH; earned a B.A. from
Youngstown State University & a law degree from
Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C.
• Admitted to the bar associations of Ohio, Virginia
and the District of Columbia; practiced trial law in both civil and criminal matters from 1966 to 1991. Argued a case before the U.S. Supreme Court when he was only 33 years of age.
• In 1979 became involved with the San Francisco
Forty Niners Football Team where he played a key role
in the team’s Super Bowl victories in 1982, 1985, 1989, 1990, and 1995.
• In 1989, was responsible for all of the team’s business, front-office and stadium activities; represented the team on NFL league matters.
• From 1991 to 1998, was the San Francisco Forty Niners’ president and CEO; named
NFL Executive of the year in 1994; and also named one of the most influential people in professional sports The Sporting News and GQ Magazine.
• In 1998, became part owner/president & CEO of the Cleveland Browns Football
Company in Ohio where he was responsible for all activities related to both football and business operations -- a post he held until early 2004.
• Currently owns and operates the Casa Piena Vineyard & Winery in California and is involved in many civic and charitable causes in San Francisco and the Napa Valley.
• Along with his wife, Gail Moretti Policy, designed and endowed the Carmen and Gail
Policy Clinical Fellowship at the Georgetown University Law Center which promotes civil rights.
• He has five children who today are three attorneys, a businesswoman and a pediatric
orthopedic surgeon. Presently they are blessed with seven grandchildren (two girls and five boys).
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
John Francis “Jack” Reed U.S. Senator
from
Rhode Island
THE 2011 SIF LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR PUBLIC SERVICE
• Born and raised in Rhode Island; graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (1971).
• Joined the U.S. Army in 1967 as an Army Ranger and paratrooper; served in the 82nd Airborne
Division as an Infantry platoon leader, a company commander and a battalion staff officer. • Earned a Masters of Public Policy from
Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government in 1973.
• Resigned from active duty with rank of captain in 1979, but remained in the Army Reserves from 1979 to 1991.
• In 1982, earned a law degree from Harvard University. • Taught in the Department of Social Sciences at West Point (1977-79) and practiced law in R.I. (1982-90).
• As a member of the Democratic Party, was elected to the Rhode Island State Senate in 1984 where he served for six years.
• In 1990, was elected to represent Rhode Island in the U.S. House of Representatives
where he served for three terms. During his tenure in the House, championed child health care, public libraries, and campaign finance reform.
• In 1996, was elected to the U.S. Senate as Rhode Island’s 46th senator. • Currently, serves on three Senate committees: Appropriations; Armed Services; and Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.
• Recently co-authored legislation to create a new affordable housing trust fund, improve
consumer disclosures on mortgages, and address the needs of middle-class families who are struggling with the fallout from the housing crisis.
• Senator Reed is married to Julia Hart Reed. They have a daughter, Emily, and make their home in Jamestown, Rhode Island.
23rd Annual NELA
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The Wounded Warrior Project “T he
greatest casualty is being forgotten ”
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) is to honor and empower injured members of the U.S. military. Its purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely wounded service members, to help them aid and assist each other, and to provide them with necessary programs and services. The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2003 by former Marine and wounded veteran, John Melia, his family and friends, including one of this year’s SIF honorees, Steven Nardizzi, who now directs the organization. Its signature program, delivering backpacks containing personal supplies to the bedside of wounded warriors, began during this time. The backpacks include essential care and comfort items such as clothing, toiletries and playing cards. Battlefield casualties arrive in hospitals with none of these items since they haven’t the opportunity to pack a bag. Waking up in Walter Reed Army Medical Center after his injury, one of last year’s SIF honorees, Tony Odierno, found a WWP backpack by his bedside. “It reminded me that someone cared,” he says. The gift prompted him to become active in the organization where he now serves on the board. To date, the WWP has raised more than $41.6 million in contributions that provide services and programs for wounded warriors and their families. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. To get involved and learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
Steven Nardizzi, Esq. C o - f o u n d e r & E x e c u t i v e D i r e ct o r , T h e W o u n d e d W a rr i o r P r o j e ct THE 2011 SIF SPECIAL AWARD FOR COURAGE & PATRIOTISM
• Born and raised in New York City; earned a B.A. in political science from New York University and a law degree from Brooklyn Law School.
Admitted to the New York Bar in 1997 and the
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims in 1999. • Spent more than ten years as an attorney
representing disabled veterans for several veterans’ organization; helped draft the original text for the Traumatic Injury Servicemen’s Group Life Insurance
Benefit Bill, which has processed over $500 million in benefits.
• Helped found Soldier Ride, which assists in
the rehabilitation of injured service members by
sponsoring cycling events. (Now part of Wounded Warrior Project.) • Spent nine years with the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association (EPVA), rising through
the ranks to become director of EPVA’s Benefits Service Department and subsequently the organization’s associate executive director.
• In 2003, became one of several co-founders of the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), a
nonprofit organization whose mission is to “honor and empower wounded warriors” of the U.S. Armed Forces by raising awareness and support for severely injured veterans and provide programs and services for them.
• In 2006, became WWP’s deputy executive director for operations and three years later, in 2009, became its executive director.
• Currently lives in Jacksonville, FL with his wife, Nikki.
23rd Annual NELA
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Italian American Recipients of the Medal of Honor
A Legacy
Heroism
Compiled by the Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice
of
The Medal of Honor is the highest military award for bravery in the U.S. It is conferred for “individual gallantry at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.” The Army, Air Force, and Navy each has its own distinctive Medal of Honor. The of bravery mustmilitary be supported the testimony of at least two Toact date, only four have by received the U.S. eyewitnesses and recommendations must be made within defined Congressional Medal of Honor for heroism during the War time limits. inThe Afghanistan. Italian is Americans of them. Medal of Honor presentedearned by thetwo President of the United States “in the
name of the of the received United States.” this reason itHe is sometimes called the TheCongress other recipient his medalFor posthumously. U. S. Congressional Medal of Honor. was Sergeant First Class Jared Monti, who died in combat onIt June 21, 2006, trying to wounded in his is generally awarded forrescue a deeda of personalsoldier bravery or self-sacrifice only while SSof g tthe . SUnited alvatore the person in theItArmed the in United States, fighting company. was hisForces secondoftour Afghanistan. He was an 31 enemy G i u nt a r e c e i v e s States,years but can old. be given to a military person serving with friendly foreign forces engaged t h e States M e dis a lnot o fa in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United o n o r f r o m H SSgt’s. Monti and Giunta bring to a total of 25 Italian belligerent party. r e s i d e nt O b a m a P Americans who have received the Medal of Honor, beginning To date, the Sons of Italy Luigi has identified ItalianinAmericans who have earned with the Union officer, Col. Palma di25 Cesnola the the Medal of Honor, beginning with Maj. Luigi Palma di Cesnola in the Civil War. Civil War. expects that number to increase. Current research ITALIAN AMERICAN MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS NAME
HOME TOWN
Venice, Italy Albanese, Lewis Buffalo, NY Basilone, John Decatur, IL Bertoldo, Vito R. New Ulm, MN Bianchi, Willibald C. Capodanno, Vincent R. Staten Island, NY Brooklyn, NY Casamento, Anthony Royston, England Cavainani, Jon R. San Francisco, CA Cheli, Ralph Waynesburg, OH Cicchetti, Joseph J. Hibbing, NM Colalillo, Michael Watervliet, NY Dalessondro, Peter J. Damato, Anthony Peter Shenandoah, PA Saugus, MA DeFranzo, Arthur F. DiCesnola, Luigi Palma Rivarola, Italy Sharon, CT Fratellenico, Frank R. Clinton, IA Giunta, Salvatore Lexington, VA Martini, Gary W. Merli, Gino J. Scranton, PA Monti, Jared Abington, MA Petrarca, Frank J. Cleveland, OH Rocco, Louis R. Albuquerque, NM Valente, Michael Cassino, Italy Versace, Humbert Alexandria, VA Bayside, CA Viale, Robert M. Beverly, MA Vittori, Joseph
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SERVICE
US Army US Marines US Army US Army US Marines US Marines US Army US Army US Army US Army US Army US Marines US Army US Army US Army US Army US Marines US Army US Army US Army US Army US Army US Army US Army US Marines
RANK
COMBAT
Private First Class Sergeant Master Sergeant First Lieutenant Lieutenant Corporal Staff Sergeant Major Private First Class Private First Class Technical Sergeant Corporal Staff Sergeant Colonel Corporal Staff Sergeant Private First Class Private First Class Sergeant First Class Private First Class Warrant Officer Private Captain Second Lieutenant Corporal
Vietnam War World War II World War II World War II Vietnam War World War II Vietnam War World War II World War II World War II World War II World War II World War II Civil War Vietnam War War in Afghanistan Vietnam War World War II War in Afghanistan World War II Vietnam War World War I Vietnam War World War II Korean War
The Sons of Italy Foundation
SSGT. Salvatore Giunta Recipient:
Staff
the
Sons
of
(U.S. A r m y , R e t .)
Italy Foundation Scholarship
Sergeant Salvatore Giunta
is the first living recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, our
nation’s highest award for military valor, since Vietnam. In October 2007, when he was only 22 years old, Sgt. Giunta ran
into enemy fire during a Taliban ambush
to rescue three wounded comrades, who had been separated from the others.
One, Sgt. Joshua Brennan, was severely
wounded and being dragged off by the
Taliban. Giunta tossed his last grenade
and emptied his rifle, killing one enemy and driving off the other. He stayed with
his wounded comrade until help arrived,
but tragically, Sgt. Brennan did not survive his injuries. Sgt. Giunta was born in Clinton, Iowa into a family of Italian heritage. His father is
a medical equipment technician and his mother is a preschool teacher. After finishing
high school, Sgt. Giunta joined the Army when he was 17.
For his heroism, Sgt. Giunta received the Medal of Honor from President Barack
Obama at the White House on November 16, 2010. His family and all his surviving
squad members also attended the ceremony. “I did what anyone would have done,” he
told reporters after the ceremony. “And I would give this back in a second to have my
friends with me right now.”
After serving two tours in Afghanistan, Sgt. Giunta will leave the Army in June to
attend college in Colorado on the G.I. Bill. The Sons of Italy Foundation is proud to offer this young man a $10,000 scholarship to help him complete his education.
23rd Annual NELA
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The 2011 SIF National Leadership Grant Recipients SEAN W. BROCKLEHURST The Lou Carnesecca Scholarship Hometown: Austin, TX School: Texas A&M University – College Station, TX
• AP Scholar with Distinction & National Merit Finalist • Completed NASA’s High School Aerospace Scholars Program. • Eagle Scout, graduating in top 2 percent of his class
DOMINIC FRANK CALABRESE The Giulia Besozzi Scholarship Hometown: Oak Brook, IL School: University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
• President of the National Honor Society • Attended mission trips to Egypt, caring for underprivileged children in slums • Lived and served alongside the homeless in San Francisco • Ran a summer camp for high school students in the Dominican Republic
GRACE ANN DANELLO The Charles Evans Scholarship Hometown: Charlotte, NC School: Duke University – Durham, NC
• Presidential Scholar Semifinalist; National Merit Finalist; AP Scholar with Distinction • National Honor Society & Class Valedictorian. • Award-winning Flutist & Pianist in All-State Bands and Orchestras • Performed over 2,000 hours of public service in China and Kenya
PETER ANDREW DeBLASI The Frank D. Privitera Family Scholarship Hometown: North Babylon, NY School: Columbia University – New York, NY
• National Merit Commended Scholar; AP Scholar with Distinction • Captain , Varsity Academic Team • Clarinet player in traveling summer jazz band
MATTHEW RICHARD FERRANTI The 2011 National Education & Leadership Grant Hometown: San Carlos, CA School: Stanford University – Stanford, CA
• National Merit Finalist; three-time National Latin Exam Gold Medalist; AP Scholar with Distinction • Achieved perfect SAT score of 2400 • Co-Editor-in-Chief of high school newspaper • Plays bass clarinet in symphonic band
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
REBECCA CAROLINE KASS The Henry F. Salvatori Memorial Scholarship Hometown: St. Petersburg, FL School: University of Pennsylvania – Philadelphia, PA
• President of both National Honor Society & Rho Kappa History Honor Society • National Merit Commended Scholar & AP Scholar with Distinction • Sent by St. Petersburg as student Ambassador to Takamatsu, Japan
VALERIE LAKESTREAM The Frank P. Gambino Memorial Scholarship for Italian Language Hometown: Mohopac, NY School: Pace University – New York, NY
• Knows four languages including American Sign Language. • In 2010, participated in the NOIAW/MAE cultural exchange to Rome, Italy. • Last summer appeared on RAI Tre with the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs
ALYSSA T. O’CONNOR The Simone & Bruno Giuffrida Memorial Scholarship Hometown: Rochester, NY School: Cornell University – Ithaca, NY
• Vice President of Cornell Habitat for Humanity • Recipient, New York State Merit Scholarship & Jeff Pargament Public Policy Internship Award • Featured Artist in Student Arts Showcase
CHRISTOPHER STEPHEN SATTI The Aldo A. Caira Memorial Scholarship Hometown: Cambridge, MA School: Harvard Business School – Boston, MA
• Graduate of Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. • Class Valedictorian at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business • Summer 2011 Intern in Business Development at Fox Networks in Los Angeles • Interned at the U.S. Embassy in Rome in 2004
THE CHARLES EVANS SCHOLARSHIP For the second year, the Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) is proud to award The Charles Evans Scholarship, a perpetual scholarship funded by an endowment from the Charles Evans Foundation.
A successful businessman, U.S. veteran, and philanthropist, Charles Evans cofounded the fashion house Evan-Picone and was executive producer of the Academy Award-winning film, “Tootsie.”
Charles Evans (1926-2007)
23rd Annual NELA
Mr. Evans crusaded for causes close to his heart, namely fire detection safety and Alzheimer’s disease research, and served as national director of the Alzheimer’s Association. The SIF is grateful to the Charles Evans Foundation for making this perpetual scholarship possible.
17
The 2011 SIF National Leadership Grant Donors The Sons of Italy Foundation Deeply Thanks the SIF Perpetual Scholarship Donors
Giulia Besozzi Scholarship
George L. Graziadio/SIF Scholarship
Boncore Family Scholarship
Polo Family Scholarship
Cappellotti Family Scholarship
Frank D. Privitera Scholarship
Carlone Family Scholarship
Henry F. Salvatori Memorial Scholarship
Lou Carnesecca Scholarship
Pietro Secchia Scholarship
Esposito Family Scholarship
Dr. Vincenzo Sellaro Scholarship
The Charles Evans Foundation Scholarship
George J. & John G. Spatuzza Scholarship
Simone & Bruno Giuffrida Memorial Scholarship
Giovanni Glessi Scholarship
Angelo Tomasso Sr. Scholarship Peter & Pearl Tubiolo Memorial Scholarship
The SIF thanks the donors of this year’s additional scholarships: The Aldo A. Caira Memorial Scholarship The Frank P. Gambino Memorial Scholarship for Italian Language The Sons of Italy Foundation Scholarship The Wounded Warrior Scholarship
The SIF also acknowledges the generous contributions of Anthony J. Baratta Joseph DiTrapani and Paul S. Polo to The 2011 National Education & Leadership Awards
18
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Acknowledgements The Sons of Italy Foundation expresses its sincere gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their generosity in making the 23rd Annual National Education & Leadership Awards Gala a success. Alitalia Airlines Alzheimer’s Association Colavita USA & Perugina Baci Cooley’s Anemia Foundation D.C. Metropolitan Police Department Ceremonial Honor Guard Raymond Dettore, Esq. Finmeccanica, S.p.A. Rev. D. Adam Forno Hon. Arthur J. Gajarsa Joseph J. Grano, Jr. Lufthansa Group Joe Mantegna Col. Matt McCarville Lewis C. Merletti Linda Munson, President & The Charles Evans Foundation National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Franco Nuschese & Café Milano Capt. Anthony Odierno (Ret.) Gen. Raymond Odierno Vincent Panvini & Sheetmetal Workers International Association Maria Fassio Pignati Carmen & Gail Policy Michael Rienzi & the Rienzi Foundation Robert A. Scardelletti & Transportation Communications International Union Theresa Sareo Thomas Trapasso Giada Valenti Vantage Group Services, Inc. The Wounded Warrior Project And all the sponsors and guests of the 2011 NELA Gala Additional Thanks
to the
Following In-Kind Contributors
Alitalia Airlines • Colavita USA & Perugina Baci • DelGrosso Foods, Inc. Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa • Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill Chef Thomas Keller • Lufthansa Group • Votto Vines And
to
Dan Ashwell, Printing Solutions, Inc. • Lynn Kessler, LK Productions, LLC Jack Lucky, Jack H. Lucky Floral Designs Inc. • Carlo Tamburro, Williams/Gerard Productions Max Taylor, Photography • Diane Vincent, Graphic Design
23rd Annual NELA
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The Sons
of
Italy Foundation
T he S ons of I taly F oundation (SIF) is the philanthropic arm of the O rder S ons of I taly in A merica (OSIA). E stablished in 1959, the SIF has given nearly $117 million to scholarships , philanthropy , medical research , disaster relief and cultural preservation .
S C HOLA R SHI P S Every year, the SIF gives $100,000 in scholarships to promising young Italian Americans at NELA
M EDI C AL R ESEA R C H The SIF supports research to cure Cooley’s anemia, Alzheimer’s disease and other serious threats to life and health
DISAS T E R R ELIEF The SIF donates generously to disaster relief in the U.S. and abroad
20
The Sons of Italy Foundation
C UL T U R AL P R ESE R VA T IO N The SIF’s GaribaldiMeucci Museum is a center of Italian culture on Staten Island, NY
I M M IG R A N T HIS T O R Y The SIF 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.
S P E C IAL P R OJE C T S The SIF supports the establishment and restoration of U.S. monuments, including the Statue of Liberty, the WW II memorial and the projected tribute to 9/11 in New York City.
23rd Annual NELA
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T he S ons of I taly F oundation A History of Giving MEDICAL RESEARCH & SOCIAL SERVICES
Alzheimer’s Association American Fund for Dental Health American Italian Cancer Foundation Annette Funicello Fund for Neurological Disorders Arthritis Foundation Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center Boys Town of Italy CES Foundation Children’s Inn at NIH Coaches vs. Cancer Cooley’s Anemia Foundation Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America The Daniel Pitino Children’s Health Foundation The Fondazione Il Cireneo Onlus per l’Autismo Fox Chase Cancer Center Lombardi Cancer Center March of Dimes Michael Bolton Charities For Battered Women Multiple Sclerosis Lupis Foundation & Elizabeth Fund The Smile Train Special Olympics St. Joseph’s Indian School
CULTURAL PRESERVATION & THE ARTS
American Italian Historical Association Center for Migration Studies Commission for Social Justice Concordia Language Villages Italian Program Council for the Promotion of Italian Language in American Schools FIERI National Garibaldi-Meucci Museum In Italiano language program Istituto Italiano di Cultura Italian Americana Italian American Cultural Center Italian Cultural Society Italian Musicale John D. Calandra Italian-American Institute The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts SIF Patron of the Arts & Culture program U.S. State Department/American Embassy in Rome
22
Washington Revels
EDUCATION
American Institute for Foreign Study & Academic Year in America exchange programs Bard College The College Board Advanced Placement Program in Italian Dante School for Children Hoop Dreams Italian Studies Chair at California State University John Cabot University Mentoring and Internships Order Sons of Italy in America National Student Summit Seton Hall School of Diplomacy & International Relations The SIF National Leadership Grant Competition
DISASTER RELIEF
American Red Cross (Hurricane Andrew relief) Assisi earthquake relief Cassino Memorial Orphanage Rebuilding Catholic Relief Services Ethiopian famine relief Florentine flood relief Katrina Relief Fund Mexican earthquake relief Naples earthquake relief Oklahoma City Bombing SIF/OSIA 911 Disaster Relief Fund Tsunami Relief (Indonesia) L’Aquila Earthquake in Abruzzo, Italy Japanese Earthquake-Tsunami Relief
OTHER SPECIAL PROJECTS Arab American Institute Christopher Columbus Catholic Center DC Friends of Ireland Don Orione Home & Madonna Queen National Shrine Ellis Island Foundation Greater Washington Urban League, Inc. Immigration History Research Center The Isaac Hayes Foundation National Football League Players Association National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial National Policy Association National World War II Memorial The Statue of Liberty Restoration Project TF Peace Foundation The Sons of Italy Foundation
T he S ons
of
I taly F oundation
Contribution Highlights 1959 Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) established as the philanthropic arm of the Order Sons of Italy in America, the nation’s oldest and biggest organization for people of Italian heritage. 1964 Donates $25,000 for flood victims in Belluno, Italy 1966 Donates $200,000 for flood victims in Florence and Venice 1967 Designates March of Dimes as one of its official charities and donates more than $14 million over the next two decades 1968 Raises more than $127,000 for earthquake victims in Sicily 1974 Names Cooley’s Anemia Foundation as an official charity. Donations to date: more than $3 million. 1976 Raises $217,000 for earthquake victims in Friuli, Italy 1981 Donates $3 million in funds and sends medicine and clothing to 97 southern Italian towns devastated by 1980 earthquake. 1985
Contributes to restoration of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
1987 Donates $30,000 to earthquake victims in Mexico 1989 Holds first National Education & Leadership Award (NELA) event in Washington, DC 1990 Contributes $50,000 to establish the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC 1993 Names the Alzheimer’s Association one of its official charities and donates $1 million over the next 10 years. Pledges another $1 million donation by 2015. 2003 Contributes $66,000 to help establish an Advanced Placement program in Italian and contributed an additional $100,000 in 2010. 2004
Donates $100,000 to establish a World War II memorial in Washington, DC
2005
Donates $15,000 to the Tsunami Emergency Relieve effort in Asia
2006 Donates $35,000 for Hurricane Katrina Relief 2007 Pledges $100,000 to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in NYC 2007 Donates $100,000 to Coaches vs. Cancer 2008 Donated $100,000 over past four years to the Rienzi Foundation to cure deafness through cochlear implants 2009 Collects an estimated $300,000 in relief funds to aid victims of Abruzzi earthquake 2010 Donated $100,000 to build the World Trade Center Museum & Memorial in New York City 2011 Donated $235,000 to help rebuild the Fondazione Il Cireneo Onlus per L’Autismo, a center for autistic children, destroyed by the 2009 earthquake that struck L’Aquila in Abruzzi.
23rd Annual NELA
23
General Raymond T. Odierno C ommander , U.S. J oint F orces C ommand S pecial G uest P resenter Gen. Raymond T. Odierno serves as commander, U.S. Joint Forces
Command (USJFCOM), located in Norfolk, Va. The command focuses on supporting current operations while shaping U.S. forces
for the future.
Previously, he was the commanding general of U.S. forces in Iraq
where he served three tours of duty. Gen. Odierno and his men fought
in the Sunni Triangle, north of Baghdad, one of the most violent
regions of Iraq. There in December 2003, his troops captured Saddam
Hussein. The general is also the deservedly proud father of one of last year’s SIF honorees, Capt. Anthony Odierno (U.S. Army Ret.).
Gen. Odierno was born and raised in New Jersey and is a 1976
graduate of West Point. He has had a long and distinguished military
career and earned many honors. He also holds masters degrees in
nuclear effects engineering from North Carolina State University and
National security and strategy from the Naval War College.
We are honored that he was able to be with us tonight to present SSgt. Salvatore Giunta with a SIF
scholarship.
Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. National Executive Director & CEO, The Sons of Italy Foundation & National Executive Director, Order Sons of Italy in America Since 1988, Dr. Piccigallo has led the Sons of Italy in Washington,
DC where his efforts have strengthened ties between Italian Americans and leaders in government and public policy.
He brought to the Order a background in unions and specifically
the American Federation of Teachers, the Seafarers International Union and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO.
Born and raised in New York City, he holds a B.A. in economics;
an M.A. in economic history and a Ph.D. in history and international
affairs from the City University of New York. He has written two
books on U.S. foreign policy, and articles on education, politics and
international affairs. He and wife, Rose have two children, Jacqueline and Paul. 24
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Joe Mantegna M aster
of
C eremonies
The career of award-winning actor Joe Mantegna encompasses
stage, screen and television.
Joe was awarded the Tony and Joseph Jefferson Award for his
acclaimed performance as Richard Roma in David Mamet’s Pulitzer
Prize-winning play Glengarry Glen Ross. Some of Joe’s film and
television highlights are House of Games, Searching for Bobby Fisher, and
the role of Dean Martin in The Ratpack.
For two seasons, Joe starred with Mary Steenburgen and Amber
Tamblyn in the critically acclaimed CBS drama, Joan of Arcadia, winner
of the 2004 People’s Choice Award for best new drama as well as picking up three Emmy nominations. In 2008, Joe reprised his Emmy-
nominated role of Lou Manahan opposite Debra Messing in USA Network series, The Starter Wife.
Joe has several projects in the works including Disney/Pixar film,
CARS2. Currently, he stars as FBI Special Agent David Rossi in
season six of the Hit CBS Drama Criminal Minds. In April of 2011 Joe received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Giada Valenti F eatured P erformer Singer and songwriter Giada Valenti is recognized for her special
voice and great stage presence. Tonight she makes her second appearance
at the Sons of Italy Foundation National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.
Born and raised in Venice, Ms. Valenti began touring professionally
at age 12; studied piano and music theory at a Venetian conservatory
and moved to New York in 2004 where she records her albums, performs locally and tours here and abroad with her shows, La Dolce Vita Swings and Moonlight & Romance.
Her CD, And I Love You So, showcases her sophisticated music
and European style. It features her interpretation of classic love songs
in French, Italian and English, including “La Vie En Rose,” “It’s Impossible” and “Grande, Grande, Grande.” 23rd Annual NELA
25
Highlights
from
SIF CEO Philip Piccigallo greets 2009 SIF honoree, Vice President Joseph Biden
Scientist and AIDS researcher Anthony Fauci, M.D. received the 1992 NELA honor
Past NELAs
Five women trailblazers at the 2007 NELA. (L. to R.): Madeleine Albright; Hillary Rodham Clinton; Geraldine Ferraro; Nancy Pelosi and Mary Landrieu
The 1993 NELA honoree Annette Funicello with Congressman Bob Michel
Former FBI Director Louis Freeh, honored in 1994, with Senator Patrick Leahy
U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia received the 1991 NELA honor
President George W. Bush at the 2004 NELA 26
The Sons of Italy Foundation
President Bill Clinton has attended seven NELAs over the years Past NELA M.C.s newsman Sam Donaldson (L) and acclaimed actor Joe Mantegna
Television’s Larry King was a NELA Master of Ceremonies in 1999
Leon Panetta, the former congressman and current head of the CIA, was a NELA keynote speaker
TV’s Regis Philbin was honored in 1991
The legendary Tony Bennett received the SIF Humanitarian Award in 1999 23rd Annual NELA
Then-Vice President Al Gore spoke at the 1994 NELA
The NELA 1996 honoree, the legendary Joe Paterno (L) with Senator Bob Dole 27
T he S ons
of
I taly F oundation
The SIF Award Recipients 2010 - 1989 The Sons of Italy Foundation (SIF) Awards are given annually at the SIF’s Gala Dinner, held every May in Washington, D.C.
2010
Lewis C. Merletti Sr. Vice President, Cleveland Browns
The National Education & Leadership Award (NELA)
2007
Nicholas Donofrio Executive VP, IBM
Geraldine Ferraro Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service SIF Lifetime Former Congresswoman Achievement Award Humanitarian Award for Public Service Frank Giordano President, Union League of Philadelphia
President Bill Clinton Founder, William J. Clinton Foundation
Capt. Anthony Odierno SIF Special Award (U.S. Army, Ret.) for Courage & Patriotism Manager, Stadium Operations, NY Yankees 2009
Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Lifetime Achievement Vice President of the United States Award for Public Service Arthur J. Gajarsa Federal Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals
SIF Lifetime Achievement Award in Jurisprudence
The Rienzi Foundation
Michael Rienzi President & Founder, Rienzi & Sons
Robert E. Juliano SIF Humanitarian Chairman, Robert E. Juliano Associates
Mary Ann Esposito Host/Creator, “Ciao Italia” PBS TV
Joseph Battipaglia CIO, Ryan Beck & Co.
Joseph Plumeri Chairman & CEO, Willis Group Steve Wynn Chairman & CEO, Wynn Resorts
NELA
SIF Award for Global Vision & Philanthropy
Michael Petruzzello SIF Award Founder & Managing Partner, Excellence in Business Qorvis Communications
NELA
Franco Nuschese Excellence in Business President, Georgetown Entertainment Group, LLC
2005
SIF Lifetime AchievementAward Culinary Arts
Making A Difference Award
2006
Robert A. Scardelletti SIF Humanitarian International President, Award Transportation Communications Union/IAM
2008
NELA
Dana Gioia Chairman, National Endowment For the Arts
NELA
Business Award
Karen Ignagni Lifetime Achievement President & CEO, in Management America’s Health Insurance Plans Joseph G. Procacci OSIA Centennial Award CEO, Procacci Brothers Sales Corp. 2004
Joseph Grano Chairman, UBS Financial Services Silvio Berlusconi Prime Minister of Italy
NELA
International Leadership Award
Alfred Rotondaro, PhD SIF Humanitarian Excellence in Academia Award Sr. Fellow, Center for American Progress Award John De Gioia President, Georgetown University 28
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Frances Visco Humanitarian Award President, National Breast Cancer Coalition
Frank Sinatra Humanitarian Award Legendary Entertainer, Producer & Philanthropist
2003
1997
Charles Gargano Chairman, Empire State Development Corp.
NELA
Andy Granatelli Lifetime Achievement Automotive designer, driver & engineer Richard L. Trumka Humanitarian Award Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO 2002
Robert Gallo, M.D. AIDS & cancer researcher
NELA
Martin J. Maddaloni Humanitarian Award General President United Association (union) Joe Mantegna Actor
Excellence in Media Award
2001
John F. Mariani Chairman, Banfi Vintners
NELA
Robert A. Georgine Humanitarian Award Chairman, President & CEO ULLICO, Inc. Regis Philbin Television Host
Lifetime Achievement Award
Mario Andretti Racing Legend & Business Entrepreneur
NELA
Phil Guarascio Crystal Lion Recognition Former Vice President & General Manager North American Marketing & Advertising General Motors Corporation
NELA
Tommy Lasorda Humanitarian Award Vice President/Former Manager LA Dodgers 1996
Joe Paterno Head Football Coach Pennsylvania State University
NELA
Alfred A. Checchi Former Co-Chairman Northwest Airlines Corporation
NELA
1995
Joseph E. Antonini President, JEA Enterprises, Inc. 1994
The Honorable Louis J. Freeh Senior Vice Chairman Administrative & Legal Affairs MBNA America, Inc. 1993
2000
Connie Stevens Actress & Businesswoman
Peter F. Secchia Chairman,Universal Forest Products, Inc. & Former U.S. Ambassador to Italy
Annette Funicello Entertainer 1992
Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Director, The National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease at the NIH
Humanitarian Award
1991
Andrew A. Giancamilli NELA Former President & General Merchandise Manager Kmart Corporation
1990
The Honorable Antonin Scalia U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice
NELA
NELA
NELA
NELA
NELA
1999
Tony Bennett Legendary Entertainer 1998
Humanitarian Award
Phil Guarascio Former Vice President & General Manager North American Marketing & Advertising General Motors Corporation 23rd Annual NELA
NELA
The Honorable Silvio O. Conte U.S. Congressman [Massachusetts] 1989
Lou Carnesecca Head Basketball Coach (Ret.) St. John’s University
NELA
NELA
29
T he S ons
of
Board
I taly F oundation
and
C o mm i tt e e s
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Joseph DiTrapani Chairman Vincent Sarno President Anthony J. Baratta Vice President Rita Maletta Robak Recording Secretary Frank J. Panessa Financial Secretary Nancy Di Fiore Quinn Treasurer
Resource Persons
Maria Fassio Pignati John Carochi James Di Stefano Salvatore Lanzilotta Hon. John Foradora Nick Ameli National Executive Director/CEO Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. 2011 SIF SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE
Michelle Ment, Chair Louis F. Cappelli, Sr. Joseph Cicero Joanne L. Strollo
President Emeritus Paul S. Polo
2011 SIF SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION CONSULTANTS
Trustees Emeritus Valentino Ciullo Sebastian M. Polo*
Mark Lindenmeyer Assistant V.P. & Director of Financial Aid Loyola College, Maryland
Trustees
Alfred A. Affinito Louis Ambrosio Angelo Bianchi Joseph Cicippio Edward Innella Carlo Matteucci Robert A. Messa Michael S. Polo Philip R. Privitera Joseph A. Russo Joseph Sciame Joanne Strollo
Michelle Arcieri Senior Associate Director, Office of Student Financial Assistance, George Washington University, Washington, DC Dr. Maria Wilmeth The Italian Cultural Society Scholarship Committee Washington, D.C.
*With great sadness, we marked the passing of Sebastian M. Polo in 2009. In tribute to his many years of service to the Order, we will keep his name on our SIF roster for the duration of his term. 30
The Sons of Italy Foundation
T he S ons
of
I taly F oundation
S t a f f , C o n s u l t a nt s & N ELA V o l u nt e e r s
NATIONAL OFFICE
CONSULTANTS
STAFF
Philip R. Piccigallo, Ph.D. National Executive Director/CEO
Dan Ashwell, Printing Solutions, Inc. Printing
Andrea K. Beach Office Manager
Anita Ellis, Avalon Caterers Dinner
Diane Crespy Director of Development
Lynn Kessler, L.K.Producations, LLC Video
Dona De Sanctis, Ph.D. Editor, NELA Dinner Journal Estelle Amari Faulkner Staff Intern Anamarie Ford Executive Assistant Laura Kelly Administrative Assistant / Scholarship Coordinator Zac Milner Program Coordinator Laura Fortunato Petrik Staff Intern
Jack H. Lucky, Floral Design, Inc. Flowers
The Sons of Italy Foundation National Headquarters is in an historic district of Washington, D.C. at the foot of Capitol Hill. NELA GALA VOLUNTEERS
Jessica Abeshouse Sylvia Cacciato Rob D’Onofrio Kevin Fellin Maria Havrilla Nick Kelley Dan Nabors Margaret O’Rourke Jackie Piccigallo Paul Piccigallo Nadene Wright Kate Yackel
Carl Tamburro, Williams/Gerard Productions, Inc. Event Producer Max Taylor Photography Diane Vincent Graphic Design
Singer/song writer Theresa Sareo frequently performs at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D.C. Her experiences there were the inspiration for her powerful “Through A Soldier’s Eyes,” which she will sing for us tonight. 23rd Annual NELA
31
The Order Sons of Italy in America The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) is the oldest and largest national organization for Italian
American men and women in the United States. Founded in 1905 to help the early Italian immigrants, today
OSIA is the nation’s leading Italian American service and advocacy organization, with a grass roots network of more than 700 lodges or chapters coast-to-coast. Its programs include • Italian America Magazine the most widely read quarterly in the U.S. for people of Italian heritage
• Passport To Italy OSIA’s travel bureau arranges low-cost group tours to Southern Italy and its cultural patrimony
• Scholarships Financial support for young Italian Americans attending college and graduate school
• Study Abroad Partnerships Opportunities for students and adults to study, live and work in Italy.
• the Sons of Italy National Book Club Promotes fiction and non-fiction works by and about Italian Americans
The Sons
Commission
for
Italy Social Justice of
• The CSJ was founded in 1979 to fight the stereotyping of Italian Americans by the entertainment, advertising, and news industries. It also 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.
• 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, produces studies, teaching tools,
pamphlets, exhibits and other materials on the achievements and contributions of Italian Americans.
32
The Sons of Italy Foundation
IN MEMORIAM
JOHN DABBENE 1938-2010 Italian Americans lost a great champion with the death of John
Dabbene, president emeritus of the Sons of Italy Commission for Social Justice (CSJ) in October, 2010.
John Dabbene joined the Sons of Italy’s William LaMorte Lodge
#2251 on Staten Island in 1977 (now the Father Capodanno Lodge) and was its president in 1980 and 1989. He then spent most of the last
30 years of his life fighting the stereotyping of Italian Americans. In
1993, he helped establish the CSJ’s New York chapter where he served as president until 1999 when he was elected president of the national CSJ.
Under him, the CSJ created bookmarks, fact sheets, traveling exhibits and even an award-winning documentary
on Italian American Medal of Honor recipients. In 2005, he became the CSJ’s first president emeritus.
John met frequently with television, advertising and movie executives, advocating a more positive and realistic
portrayal of Italian Americans. His efforts are credited with the withdrawal of a planned “Godfather” stamp by
the U.S. Postal Service. He became so well-known at HBO, through many meetings about “The Sopranos,”
that the network called him when it began producing the World War II documentary series, “The Pacific.”
At his urging, HBO included in the series the Medal of Honor recipient John Basilone, the most highly
decorated enlisted man in WW II. Earlier this year, he met with producers at MTV about the show, “Jersey Shore,” and convinced them to reduce the number of negative references to Italian Americans.
His extensive honors include the College of Staten Island’s Golden Dolphin Award for outstanding
community service; the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Award and the Brooklyn Borough President’s Citation,
along with numerous honors from the Sons of Italy.
In addition to his anti-defamation work, John Dabbene devoted the last ten years of his life to a little
museum on Staten Island that was once the home of the inventor, Antonio Meucci. Owned by the Sons of Italy Foundation, the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum (GMM) had fallen into disrepair until 2001, when John became its chairman and president/CEO.
Under his direction, the museum expanded programs for schools, colleges and community groups; started
a museum gift shop; developed traveling exhibitions and a website; formed a Speakers Bureau and completed
over $250,000 in restoration projects. In March of 2010, he stepped down, but remained extremely active in all
areas of the museum administration. It has to be sadly noted that John Dabbene died on October 18th, the 121st anniversary of the death of Antonio Meucci.
John used his considerable talents and personal charm to win people over and encourage them to cooperate,
but he never cared who got the credit. We send our most heartfelt condolences to Marcy, his wife, and his family. Addio, John. We will never forget you. 23rd Annual NELA
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IN MEMORIAM
GERALDINE A. FERRARO 1935-2011 In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro became the first woman and the first Italian American
ever to run for national office on a major party ticket. That year, only two women were serving in the U.S. Senate.
The day she died, on March 26, 2011, there were 17 women senators, along with
77 women in the House of Representatives, 6 governors and 1,700 state legislators. Those impressive statistics are her legacy, bearing witness to the influence her life and example have had on millions of women in America.
Her beginnings were humble. She was born in Newburgh, NY, the fourth child
and only daughter of an Italian immigrant, Dominick Ferraro, from Campania. Her
mother, Antonetta, had already lost two children when her husband died suddenly of a heart attack. Geraldine was eight years old.
Antonetta worked as a seamstress to send her children to school. After graduating from college, Ms. Ferraro
taught in a Queens public elementary school for five years while she studied law at Fordham University. She
was one of two women in a class of 179 and earned her law degree in 1960.
That year, she married John Zaccaro and stayed home for 13 years to raise their three children. In 1974,
however, she got a job as an assistant district attorney in Queens, N.Y., where she helped establish the Special Victims Bureau and prosecuted cases of child abuse, domestic violence and rape.
Her political career was launched in 1978 when she ran successfully for Congress, where she served three
terms until Walter Mondale tapped her as his vice presidential running mate in 1984. Perhaps her proudest moment in Congress, was her co-sponsorship of the Economic Equity Act, a law that outlawed unequal treatment
of women in salaries and pensions.
After losing the 1984 election, Ms. Ferraro tried twice unsuccessfully to represent New York State in the
U.S. Senate. During the Clinton Administration, she was the U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Human Rights
Commission (1994 -1996), and vice-chair of the U.S. delegation to the fourth World Conference on Women
in Beijing (1995). She was a political commentator on “Fox News” and co-host of CNN’s “Crossfire” and also wrote books and articles and was a business consultant.
In 1998, she learned she had multiple myeloma, a bone-marrow cancer that suppresses the immune system.
She successfully fought the disease for almost 13 years before succumbing last March. She was 75 years old.
Few would question the place Geraldine Ferraro has earned in history. Throughout her life, she never
hesitated to take on a challenge. Among her many honors is a Lifetime Achievement Award for Public Service, which the Sons of Italy Foundation gave her in 2007.
Geraldine Ferraro was extremely proud of her Italian roots and the values her mother instilled in her. “As
a child, my mother would tell me, “Don’t forget your name. Ferro means iron. You can bend it, but you can’t
break it.” 34
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Order Sons of Italy in America has partnered with Votto Vines Importing to bring you the Leone D’Oro line of fine Italian wines. Each is hand selected for its quality and elegance and is produced by the finest vineyards in Italy.
Tradition. Value. Excellence.
For more information and to order the Leone d'Oro wines, please visit vottovines.com
23rd Annual NELA
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2011 NELA Gala Sponsors Platinum
Alzheimer’s Association – www.alz.org
Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil – www.colavita.com
Columbus Citizens Foundation – www.columbuscitizensfd.org
Finmeccanica – www.finmeccanica.com
Gail & Carmen Policy – Casa Piena Cabernet Sauvignon – www.casapiena.com
Lufthansa German Airlines – www.lufthansa.com
Perugina Baci –www.perugina.com
Rienzi Foundation for Cochlear Implant Research – www.rienzifoundation.org
Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association – Michael J. Sullivan, General President – www.smwia.org
The Grano Family Foundation
The Henry Lewis Foundation
Transportation Communications Union / IAM – Robert A. Scardelletti, I nternational President – www.TCUnion.org
Gold AgustaWestland North America – www.agustawestland.com Alitalia – www.alitalia.com The Boeing Company Cooley’s Anemia Foundation – www.cooleysanemia.org Honorable Arthur J. Gajarsa Kaye Scholer LLP – www.kayescholer.com OSIA New York Grand Lodge Foundation, Inc. – www.nysosia.org Paul S. Polo, Sr., SIF President Emeritus The DiGeronimo Family / B.J. Alan Company / Phantom Fireworks Wounded Warrior Project – www.woundedwarriorproject.org 36
The Sons of Italy Foundation
Silver Ansaldo STS Anthony & Phyllis Cafaro Arab American Institute – www.aaiusa.org B&B Contractors & Developers – www.bbcdonline.com Café Milano – www.cafemilano.com DelGrosso Foods, Inc. – www.delgrossosauce.com Candy & Eddie DeBartolo & Family International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers – www.goiam.org Joseph & Elham Cicippio Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA!) – www.liuna.org Law Offices of Bianchi & Bianchi OSIA Grand Lodge of Connecticut OSIA Grand Lodge of Maryland – www.osiamd.org OSIA Grand Lodge of New Jersey – www.sonsofitalynj.org Peduzzi Associates Ltd. – www.peduzziassociates.com Privitera Family Charitable Foundation Seafarers International Union – www.seafarers.org TN Marketing, LLC – Cal Franklin
Bronze AFL-CIO – www.aflcio.org Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, OSIA – Charitable and Educational Trust Benefit Insurance Commission – www.osiama.org International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers – www.bacweb.org LasikPlus – www.lasikplus.com Naden/Lean, LLC – Jeff Drake, CPA – www.nlgroup.com The OSIA Grand Lodge of Ohio and Anthony F. M. Spaziani, OSIA National 4th Vice President The Washington Examiner – washingtonexaminer.com 23rd Annual NELA
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Sponsors 21st Century Insurance American-Italian Cancer Foundation – www.americanitaliancancer.org Ciao Italia – www.ciaoitalia.com D.C. Friends of Ireland Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa – www.coconutpoint.hyatt.com Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill – www.washingtonregency.hyatt. com Inserra Supermarkets, Inc. Italian Welfare League, Inc. – Linda Carlozzi, President – www.italianwelfareleague.org John D’Amico Joseph S. Fichera Matt & Karen McCarville National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund – www.nleomf.org The National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW) OSIA Grand Lodge of IL/WI – Richard R. Della Croce, State President & Anthony J. Baratta, National First Vice President OSIA Grand Lodge of West Virginia President Nick Ameli & Jeanne Ameli OSIA National Historian Sam Fumosa and Wife Rita Fumosa OSIA National Past Presidents: Alfred A. Affinito, Commendatore Frank J. DeSantis, Hon. Robert A. Messa, Paul S. Polo, Vincent Sarno, Joseph Sciame, John G. Spatuzza, Peter Zuzolo OSIA National Second Vice President Kevin & Cheryl Caira OSIA National Trustee Joseph LaBanca and Mary LaBanca Robert Corrao & Sports Impact Schneider’s of Capitol Hill – Jon and Rick Genderson, Proprietors – www.cellar. com Sierra Monitor Corporation – www.sierramonitor.com Supreme Lodge, Order Sons of Italy in America – www.osia.org Vizual, Inc. – Branding Communications – vizual.com Yvonne & Angelo Sangiacomo 38
The Sons of Italy Foundation
The Order Sons of Italy in America [OSIA] Join OSIA as a National At-Large Member: People who cannot attend lodge meetings or who are not near a local OSIA lodge can still be part of OSIA (and receive all the benefits listed below) by becoming National At-Large members for only $35.00 Member Benefits Include: •A free subscription to Italian America magazine, the most widely read magazine in the U.S. for people of Italian heritage. •Access to exclusive content on our award-winning website, OSIA.org.
•Benefits and discounts on products and services of interest to Italian Americans, including genealogy research, travel, insurance, specialty food items, and more. See all benefits at: www.osia.org/membership/discounts Your Membership Helps the Sons of Italy: Donate funds to medical research, disaster relief, cultural preservation and other important projects (nearly $117 million to date). Fight the stereotyping of Italian Americans Educate the general public about Italian Americans in U.S. history. Promote Italian language and culture in U.S. schools and colleges.
Send Italian American students to leading universities (nearly $50 million in scholarships awarded to date). Facilitate closer cultural ties with Italy. How To Join: •Visit www.osia.org/membership/membership-options and sign up online with your credit card.
•Or, call the National Office at 202.547.2900 in Washington, D.C.
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Advertising with OSIA Advertising on OSIA.org • Nearly 500,000 yearly page views. • Niche audience of Italian Americans/ people interested in Italian American causes and products. •Award winning, cutting-edge website design. •Advertisers receive a free one-time ad in Questo Mese, OSIA’s monthly e-newsletter sent to over 16,000 readers each month. Advertise here! Please contact Zac Milner at 202.547.2900 for rates and more information
Advertising in Italian America Magazine Italian America is the most widely read magazine in the United States for people of Italian heritage (estimated readership of more than 180,000 nationwide). Please contact Call Dona DeSanctis at 202.547.2900 for rates and more information
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The Sons of Italy Foundation
Congratulations to the Sons of Italy Foundation and tonight’s honorees.
23rd Annual NELA
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Finmeccanica congratulates all of this year’s National Education Leadership Awards Gala honorees for their hard work and extraordinary leadership. In recognizing its rich Italian heritage, Finmeccanica is proud to support the mission and activities of the Order Sons of Italy in America.
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The Sons of Italy Foundation