FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) 202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

(WASHINGTON, DC – March 22, 2002) Jeffrey M. Capaccio, managing partner of the San Francisco office of Carr & Ferrell LLP, a “Silicon Valley” based Intellectual Property firm, has been elected to the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Board of Directors. The elections for the 2002-2005 term were held Friday, March 8 at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Board Room in New York City.

“We are pleased and delighted that Jeff Capaccio has been elevated to the NIAF Board of Directors,” said NIAF President Joseph R. Cerrell. “Jeff is also our regional vice president for the Far West Region of the United States and has greatly enhanced the NIAF presence in this important area of our country through council receptions, membership and media networking events,” added Cerrell.

Actively involved in the Italian American community, Mr. Capaccio helped found and served as president of Amici Dell’Italia Foundation, Inc. (1994-1997) and Associazione Liguri Nel Mondo (1985-1990). He was president of the Columbus Day Celebration, Inc. and served on its Board of Directors. In 1995, the Italian Consulate General of San Francisco appointed Mr. Capaccio its legal counsel. He also serves as vice chair of the San Francisco Assisi Sister City Committee.

Born and raised in San Francisco, California, where he lives with his wife, Cynthia K. Brattesani, D.D.S. and their four year old son, Mark, Mr. Capaccio holds a Juris Doctor degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of Santa Clara, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude. He is fluent in Italian and French.