FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. (June 22, 2026) — The National Italian American Foundation mourns the passing of the Honorable Frank J. Guarini, Jr. — decorated combat veteran, seven-term U.S. Congressman, and one of the most devoted champions of Italian culture this country has ever produced. He was 101 years old.

Born in Jersey City to a family with roots in Molise, Italy, Congressman Guarini embodied the very spirit NIAF was founded to honor: the son of immigrants who rose through public service to leave an indelible mark on American life. He served seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Hudson County, New Jersey, from 1979 to 1993. Before that, he served in the New Jersey State Senate and, during World War II, saw active combat as a naval officer in the Pacific Theater, earning the Naval Commendation Medal and three Battle Stars.

Congressman Guarini’s connection to NIAF ran deep. He served as the Foundation’s President, Chairman, and a member of its Board of Directors, bringing to that role the same tenacity and vision that defined his public life. At NIAF, he championed the preservation of Italian culture through the study of the Italian language and the reinstatement of the College Board’s Advanced Placement examination in Italian Language and Culture — a legacy that continues to benefit students across the United States today.

His generosity extended far beyond Washington. He founded institutes and centers bearing his name at Dartmouth College, NYU School of Law, New Jersey City University, Saint Peter’s College, and John Cabot University in Rome. The nation of Italy recognized his lifelong dedication with its highest decoration: the Knight of the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Italy.

At NIAF’s New York Gala in April, we were honored to welcome Congressman Guarini — then the oldest living former Member of the United States House of Representatives. His presence that evening was a reminder of what this Foundation stands for: the extraordinary contributions Italian Americans have made, and continue to make, to the life of this nation.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Guarini family. His memory is a blessing, and his legacy will endure.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino & Partners USA:
Marco Lastrico
Partner – CEO
212-308-8710
m.lastrico@barabinousa.com

About the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit founded in 1975. NIAF is the largest representative of the more than 20 million Italian American citizens in the United States, dedicated to celebrating and advancing the inspiring achievements and uplifting values of Italian culture and presence in America, and to strengthening ties between the United States and Italy. For more information, visit NIAF.org.