If you’ve visited Casa Belvedere recently, you already know who Beatrice is. She’s the one who welcomes you with a hearty “Buonasera!”, inviting you to come in, get comfortable, and get ready to enjoy a culinary experience in one of our cooking classes, or a cultural presentation during our Tuesday evening cultural progam.

If you’ve dropped off your children for a cooking class, Beatrice was the one who invited you into Cucina Colavita. She is also the person who introduced herself at your children’s first Italian lesson, and now teaches them Italian. Beatrice is the lady with the Italian accent who answers your phone calls at The Italian Cultural Foundation, happy to give you information about upcoming programs and special events.

I had a little chat with Beatrice that I’d like to share with you, just so you can get to know our new Arts and Cultural Programs director a little better.

Q. Beatrice, where in Italy do you come from?
Beatrice: I was born in an ancient Etruscan city called Tarquinia, near Viterbo, 50 miles north of Rome. It was in Rome where I attended college, got married, and lived for 10 years. I worked as a certified teacher for the Italian education system.

When I moved to NY, it was directly to Staten Island, without passing through Brooklyn (she laughs as she says this). I started my American life as a teacher of the Italian language. I taught for 15 years, working in a high school in the morning and at the College of Staten Island in the evening. I went through the same struggles any immigrant faces when in a foreign country. I came to NY with my husband and my first child. We didn’t have any family here. What made everything more challenging was the fact that I did not speak a word of English, as I studied French in school.

Thank goodness Staten Island is also referred to as Staten Italy! I felt welcomed and respected every day, making the transition from Rome less painful. I have four children and a busy life. But more than anything else, I have a deep passion and enthusiasm for the Italian language and culture. Every day I wrestle with keeping Italian strong and alive in my casa, while also spreading Italianità everywhere around me.

Q. What is your role at Casa Belvedere?
Beatrice: Casa Belvedere has become my second casa since September 2019. We share the same mission, passion, interests, and culture. To me, it is a great opportunity to promote the Italian language, culture, and heritage, moving beyond the language classroom and into the community. I’ve met so many people with the same love and commitment to keeping our traditions alive! Let’s see what we can accomplish together. The sky’s the limit!

Q. Why do you believe it’s important to keep the Italian language and culture alive for Italian-Americans?
Beatrice: Commit yourself to learning how to speak Italian and that makes you feel Italian. Don’t be afraid to learn and make mistakes. I had to go through the same when I learned English. Work hard to maintain that connection to your roots. It’s so important to feel connected to where we come from, not only for you, but for your children and grandchildren. It keeps us grounded in what matters most.