Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. hosted the 2021 Essex County Italian American Heritage Month celebration on Thursday, Oct. 28, in the county’s Martin Luther King Jr. Justice Building. During the event, DiVincenzo recognized Judith M. Persichilli, commissioner of the N.J. Department of Health, and Frank J. Del Gaudio, director of the Essex County Department of Health and Rehabilitation and Essex County Hospital Center, as “Stellas della Contea di Essex,” or Stars of Essex County.

“Our celebration is an opportunity to recognize the contributions that Italian Americans have made to the history and culture of Essex County. Today, we are honoring two proud Italian Americans who have positively impacted our world and our county,” DiVincenzo said. “Judy Persichilli and Frank Del Gaudio each have made an impact on their communities and have continuously improved the quality of life for our residents.”