**NIAF All-Expenses-Paid Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery Program**

* Visit www.niaf.org/voyageofdiscovery *

(WASHINGTON, D.C. – November 5, 2012) For the fourteenth consecutive year, the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) will sponsor its Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program, an educational and cultural initiative that sends Italian American students enrolled in a college or university to Italy each year. This all-expenses-paid trip will take place between May and June 2013.

The goal of the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program is to strengthen Italian American students’ understanding of their heritage and the contributions Italy has made to the world.

“We are so proud of the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program. Over the years, more than 500 Italian American students have discovered the land of our ancestors and experienced modern-day Italy. This year we are very excited that the program will also include a service element, so the youth of our community can give something back to Italy as well,” NIAF Chief Operating Officer John M. Viola.

The 10-day trip will include opportunities for students to perform community service, educational lectures, meetings with government officials and business leaders, and visits to government offices, international businesses, museums and other cultural attractions.

Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 23 at the time of travel (May 2013); students must be enrolled in a college or university for the semester preceding the trip (Spring 2013); and students must be of Italian heritage.

The application deadline is January 31, 2013 (11:59 p.m. EST). Apply online at www.niaf.org/voyageofdiscovery. Only online applications will be accepted.

Applicants are also required to mail a transcript and two written recommendations from a teacher, school official or political or community leader. Applicants will be notified by via email on Friday, March 1, 2013.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., dedicated to preserving the heritage of Americans of Italian descent. Visit www.niaf.org.