A note from COPOMIAO President Basil M. Russo: Starting with International Women’s Day on March 8^th, we’ll honor women of Italian descent to spotlight their contributions, from culture and industry to philanthropy and activism. The inaugural Donna Distinta (Distinguished Woman) Award goes to an outstanding leader and social innovator, Dr. Gilda Rorro. 

Dr. Gilda Rorro was knighted by the President of Italy, conferring the title of Cavaliere (Cav.), an honor that is a capstone to her impressive career and lifetime achievements. Cav. Dr. Gilda Battaglia Rorro Baldassari’s memoir titled Gilda, Promise Me, transports the reader on a memorable journey through her multifaceted life of dramatic heights and challenging paths undreamed of by most women of her generation.