FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Elissa Ruffino, 202-939-3106, elissa@niaf.org

*Deadline: October 13, 2015*

(WASHINGTON, D.C.— August 12, 2015) The Fondazione “Giovanni e Francesca Falcone” and the Fulbright Program in Italy, in cooperation with the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), are pleased to announce the Fulbright Fondazione Falcone-NIAF Scholarship in Criminology.  Students must submit applications for the academic year 2016-17 by the deadline: October 13, 2015.

“The National Italian American Foundation is truly honored to partner with both the U.S. – Italy Fulbright Commission and the Fondazione Giovanni e Francesca Falcone to create a unique opportunity for a U.S. graduate student that speaks to NIAF’s mission to serve as a bridge between Italy and the Italian American community.  Together we now make a long-term impact on the field of criminology,” said NIAF President John M. Viola.

The scholarship will be awarded to a U.S. graduate student to study and conduct research in criminology and the rule of law at the “Fondazione e Francesca Falcone” in Palermo, Italy.  Students at the Bachelors, Master of Arts, Doctor of Philosophy and Juris Doctor levels, with special interest in criminology and related disciplines, including economics, sociology, education and anthropology, are invited to submit applications.  Preference will be given to students who are enrolled in a graduate program in criminology at a university in the United States at time of application.  Knowledge of Sicily’s history, and economic and social background, will have priority in the selection process. Candidates also must be proficient in the Italian language at the time of application.

Applicants can choose from a period of study from six to nine months during the academic year 2016-17. The maximum scholarship award is $12,000 and will depend on length of study. The award recipient also will be required to participate in an event organized by Fondazione “Giovanni and Francesca Falcone” on the anniversary of the death of Judge Giovanni Falcone on May 23, in Palermo, Italy.

Fondazione Giovanni e Francesca Falcone was established in Palermo, Italy, in 1992. The principal aim of the Foundation is to implement initiatives of the highest social interest, including promotion of study, research, and cultural and assistance activities, to promote the development of the anti–mafia culture in society and, in particular, among young people.

The Fulbright Program in Italy promotes study, research and teaching opportunities in Italy and the United States through a program of scholarships for Italian and U.S. citizens.

For more information visit; http://www.fulbright.it   http://us.fulbrightonline.org/countries/selectedcountry/italy

For additional questions, contact: Cecilia Niccoli Vallesi, program officer at the Fulbright Commission, cniccoli@fulbright.it

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