NIAF 51st Anniversary Gala in Review

The National Italian American Foundation proudly celebrated its 51st Anniversary Gala at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C., on October, 17, 2026, bringing together an extraordinary gathering of leaders, dignitaries, and friends of the Italian American community for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration.

The black-tie event honored distinguished individuals whose achievements embody the very best of Italian culture and the Italian American experience.

• Sebastian Maniscalco, comedian and actor, received the NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award in Entertainment and brought the house down with a live performance that had the crowd roaring with laughter.
• Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of the Fincantieri Group, received the NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership in Maritime Industry.
• Pamela Edwards Rouse Wright, the first woman of Italian descent to serve as President General of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, received the NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award in Civic Leadership.
• Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International, received the NIAF Dea Roma Special Achievement Award in Hospitality.
• Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force John Bentivegna, received the NIAF Fiorello LaGuardia Award in recognition of his distinguished service as the highest-ranking enlisted member of the United States Space Force.

International cross-over vocalist and “America’s Presidential Tenor” Christopher Macchio opened the evening with the national anthems of the United States and Italy, performed “America the Beautiful,” and brought the night to a close with a soaring rendition of “Nessun Dorma.”

Special guests included H.E. Marco Peronaci, Ambassador of Italy to the United States, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Samuel Alito, and former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta. The evening also featured a video message from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and remarks from Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardia Region — NIAF’s 2026 Region of Honor.

Explore photos from the evening below: