The NIAF 50th Anniversary Gala brought together more than 2,500 guests at the Washington Hilton in celebration of Italian heritage. Hosted by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the event marked five decades of cultural exchange and friendship between the United States and Italy.
“This Golden Anniversary celebration underscored the vital importance of U.S.–Italian relations and our organization’s role as a cultural bridge,” said NIAF President and CEO Robert Allegrini.
Distinguished Guests and Diplomatic Strength
Italian dignitaries included Giorgio Mulè, Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies, Daniela Santanché, Minister of Tourism, and Luca Ciriani, Minister for Relations with Parliament. Vannia Gava, Deputy Minister of the Environment and Energy Security, also attended, alongside numerous members of the Italian and European Parliaments.
Ambassador Marco Peronaci of Italy to the United States highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations.
Lazio Honored as Region of Focus
This year’s gala spotlighted Lazio, known for its art, heritage, and innovation. Regional President Francesco Rocca reaffirmed the region’s commitment to strengthening institutional and cultural ties with the United States.
Andrea Bocelli and John Elkann Among Honorees
Honorees represented Italian excellence across the arts, science, and business. Andrea Bocelli received the NIAF Dea Roma Lifetime Achievement Award in Entertainment and performed three songs to close the evening. John Elkann, Chairman of Ferrari and Stellantis, received the Special Achievement Award as a Global Business Leader.
Other honorees included:
- Flavio Cattaneo (Enel Group) – Management Leadership
- Roberto Cingolani (Leonardo S.p.A.) – Global Defense & Security
- Stefano Antonio Donnarumma (FS Italiane Group) – Engineering Excellence
- Dr. Kamel Ghribi (GKSD) – Healthcare Innovation
- Doug Leone (Sequoia Capital) – International Business
- Dr. Katia Passerini (Gonzaga University) – Academic Excellence
Special Moments and Legacy
A highlight of the NIAF 50th Anniversary Gala was a Lega Serie A segment featuring soccer legend Alessandro Del Piero. Aurelio De Laurentiis announced the NIAF/De Laurentiis Film Prizes winner. The evening also included the unveiling of a commemorative 50th-anniversary postage stamp.
Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco offered a heartfelt video tribute, bringing humor and warmth to the celebration. Proceeds from the gala will benefit NIAF’s educational and cultural programs, continuing its mission to inspire future generations.
Learn more: www.niaf.org
