She’s a woman who likes to stay behind the scenes, but her accomplishment and charity has made her Ohio Valley famous. Rita Carapellotti is the Italian American of the Year for 2024. The reveal was made this afternoon at her place of business, the Harp and Habit pub in Steubenville. The daughter of Italian immigrants, she’s helped develop Franciscan Square into one of the city’s major economic outlets.

But her work extends far beyond restaurants. She also supports the Friendship Room, has chaired previous Italian festivals and personally hosts a gift drive for families in need at Christmas at her home. So how would those who nominated her describe her personality?