The NIAF Gala in New York, the annual event celebrating the bond between Italy and the USA.
More than 800 guests attended the annual National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Gala in New York,traditionally hosted in the historic setting of Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. An evening that successfully combined celebration, remembrance, and reflection, once again reaffirming the Foundation’s role as a bridge between Italy and the United States.
The event brought together leading members of the Italian and Italian-American communities, including entrepreneurs, academics, artists, and institutional representatives.
Among the evening’s honorees were James Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, recognized for his impact on the world of sports; Frank Ruocco for his contribution to the hospitality sector; Tom Cox for his achievements in business; writer Linda Stasi; and Rector Carlo Alberto Giusti, honored for his contribution to academic friendship between Italy and the United States.
As tradition dictates, the evening was hosted by Joe Piscopo, while Christopher Macchio’s performance added a powerful musical moment to an event already rich in meaning.
The evening was further enriched by several institutional speeches. Marco Peronaci, Italy’s Ambassador to the United States, reaffirmed NIAF’s role as “Italy’s best friend in the United States,” highlighting the Foundation’s ability to keep alive a bond built on culture, solidarity, and concrete collaboration — values also echoed in the speech by Giorgio Marrapodi, Italy’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
For NIAF Chairman John Calvelli, the event represents each year “the feeling of a family gathering in New York,” while President and CEO Robert Allegrini recalled how the Gala is part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States, honoring the fundamental contribution of Italians and Italian Americans to the country’s history.
During the gala dinner, the traditional silent auction took place, once again featuring NERO Lifestyle among its key participants, with three exclusive four-night stays for two people at some of the prestigious partner properties within the collection: Leonardo Trulli Resort, Borgo Scopeto Wine & Country Relais, and Monastero di Cortona Hotel & SPA.
At the end of the evening, NERO Lifestyle also distributed exclusive gift bags to guests, containing Magazine N.7, a €200 gift card to be used for stays at properties within the collection, a €500 voucher valid at Lucia Magnani Health Clinic, a Primerent voucher for luxury car rentals at an exclusive rate, as well as informational materials from NERO Lifestyle and Trenitalia, along with other branded gifts.