"The Italian American studies program—along with other interdisciplinary programs—will educate our students about fundamental cultural differences. They will gain an appreciation for the ways in which Italian Americans have enriched life in this great country."

-ARTHUR LURIGIO, PHD
Professor and faculty scholar; associate dean for faculty, College of Arts and Sciences; director, center for the advancement of research, training, and education

For over 140 years, Loyola University Chicago has educated young men and women to become well-rounded leaders with an appreciation for the multitude of human experiences and cultures. Reflecting the rich diversity of its hometown, Loyola offers several academic programs in ethnic studies like Polish American, Latin American, Asian, and Black World studies. But there is one major omission in these offerings: Italian American Studies.

Loyola is partnering with Casa Italia—a cultural center and former seminary campus devoted to preserving Italian American history—to create an Italian American program at the University that would promote this important part of American history, increasing its visibility and preserving it for generations to come.

The centerpiece of an Italian American Studies program would be an endowed, tenured professor who would research, preserve, and promote Italian American culture. With its location in a world-class city that is one of the centers of Italian American culture, prestigious academic reputation, and connection to Italy through its John Felice Rome Center, Loyola University Chicago is the ideal institution to host this professorship and program.