The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) celebrated its 49th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C. This black-tie event, which was sold out, celebrated the rich legacy of Italian Americans and their contributions to the United States with over 1,000 distinguished guests from the United States and Italy.

The speeches by the honorees were heartfelt, as they reflected on the values instilled in them through their Italian American upbringing and how it has shaped who they are today.

The honorees included:

• Monica M. Bertagnolli, M.D., Director of the National Institute of Health, who received the NIAF Leonardo da Vinci Award in Health and Science.
• Carlo Cimbri of Unipol Gruppo S.p.A. and UnipolSai, who was presented with the NIAF Leonardo da Vinci Award in Corporate Social Responsibility and Impact.
• Admiral Lisa Franchetti, United States Navy Chief of Naval Operations, who was honored with the NIAF Leonardo da Vinci Award in Military Service.
• Kevin McCarthy, 55th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, who received the NIAF Leonardo da Vinci Award in Public Service.
• Carlo Messina, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Intesa Sanpaolo, who received the Leonardo da Vinci Award in Business.
• Gina M. Raimondo, who was presented with the NIAF Leonardo da Vinci Award in Public Service.

The evening was attended by a number of special guests, including: the United States Ambassador to Italy, Jack Markell; the Ambassador of Italy to the United States, Mariangela Zappia; the President of the Region of Lazio, Francesco Rocca; the 56th Governor of the State of New York, Andrew Cuomo; Senator of the Italian Republic representing North and Central American, Francesca La Marca; Deputy representing North and Central America in the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Christian Di Sanzo; and Emmy award-winning television host, best-selling cookbook author and restaurateur Lidia Bastianich.

The gala was co-hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Anchor and Global Markets Editor for FOX Business Network and FOX News Channel, and Joe Piscopo, renowned entertainer, actor, and radio host. The event featured a special performance by Christopher Macchio, lyric tenor and classical recording artist.

The evening also featured Friuli Venezia Giulia as the 2024 Region of Honor, showcasing its rich history, culture, and economic opportunities. The President of the Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia and President of the Conference of Italian Regions and Autonomous Provinces and the President of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Massimiliano Fedriga, Massimiliano Fedriga, was in attendance to represent the region and highlight its unique offerings. The gala dinner featured an exquisite culinary journey through Friuli Venezia Giulia, allowing guests to savor the authentic flavors and gastronomic traditions of this remarkable Italian region.

Prior to the gala, NIAF hosted the NIAF Forum at the hotel, featuring a series of lectures and talks. A highlight of the Forum was the Victoria J. Mastrobuono Luncheon: "Conway-Cuomo: Election 2024 Point/Counterpoint." This event featured a lively moderated discussion with seasoned political consultant and former Special Counselor to the President, Kellyanne Conway, and former New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo, showcasing their contrasting views on America's political future.

"Our annual gala was a celebration of Italian American excellence and a testament to the enduring bonds between the United States and Italy," said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. "We were excited to honor these distinguished individuals and to showcase the beauty and potential of Friuli Venezia Giulia."

The gala featured a special performance by Pierpaolo Foti, an artist, composer and violinist from Trieste, Italy. It was a bi-partisan event, with videos shown by both President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, as well as former President Donald J. Trump.

The gala began with a reception sponsored by Campari, followed by the dinner and awards program and an after-party. During the program, the NIAF 50th Anniversary logo was revealed, encouraging guests to save the date for the 50th Anniversary celebration on October 18, 2025, at the Washington Hilton.

Funds raised at the NIAF Gala directly supported the Foundation's mission and educational programs, including scholarships, cultural preservation efforts, and initiatives to strengthen U.S.-Italy ties.