On behalf of Filitalia International & Foundation, Saverio P. Nestico, 7th President of Filitalia International, alongside Pasquale F. Nestico, M.D., Founder of Filitalia International, and the Board of Directors, proudly announces the approval and establishment of its newest Chapter in Long Island, New York, one of the largest Italian-American communities in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to promote Italian language, culture, and heritage.
During the 154th Board of Directors Meeting, the Board unanimously approved the Long Island Chapter, completing the final phase of the official approval process. Francesca Varuolo, Founder and President of the Long Island Chapter, will lead this expansion into a historically significant Italian-American population center.
The Chapter will serve as a regional hub for cultural programming, Italian language education, professional networking, and community engagement, strengthening connections with families, professionals, and younger generations.
The Chapter was brought forth through the leadership of Arianna Spinelli Lento, President/Founder of the Miami, FL Chapter, in collaboration with Saverio P. Nestico, reflecting continued growth driven by dedicated leadership.
Founded in 1987, Filitalia International operates Chapters across the United States, Italy, and internationally, including 12 in the U.S., 10 in Italy, and 1 in Cuba, with additional Chapters in development. The organization connects more than 10,000 communication subscribers globally through events, programs, and outreach.
“Another historic day in the history of Filitalia International, the largest and most widespread Italian American organization in the USA,” said Saverio P. Nestico.
Filitalia International provides scholarships, international exchange and internship programs, cultural events, and operates the History of the Italian Immigration Museum in Philadelphia.
Filitalia International is also one of only seven Ente Promotore organizations in the United States, supporting Italian language education across approximately 40 schools in seven states.
The Long Island, NY Chapter Board of Directors & Officers: Francesca Varuolo (President/Founder), Matteo Kersich (1st Vice President), Leanna Bucceri (2nd Vice President), Joe Cibelis (Legal Counsel), Alexis Lucente (Secretary), Mario Bologna (Language & Culture Committee Chairperson), Julia Cenzoprano (Membership Committee Chairperson), and Board Members Marianne Carrano Deszcz, Julia Cenzoprano, Luke Petronella, Carmelisa Porretto, and Christina Principato.
