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The National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW), the only national organization in the U.S. for women of Italian heritage, has established a chapter in Washington, D.C.
The D.C. chapter was launched February 21, with a wine and cheese reception at the National Italian American Foundation headquarters. The event drew about 50 women and a handful of men.
Among the guests were Dr. Aileen Riotto Sirey, NOIAW founder and chairwoman and Carol Silvagni Macleod, NOIAW president, who came from New York City, as well as Marco Mancini from the Embassy of Italy and Jan Fenty, mother of D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, who is herself Italian American. Soprano Stacie Steinke sang excerpts from opera.
“Membership in the Washington, D.C. Chapter of NOIAW is open to working women, students, homemakers and retirees who are interested in mentoring, travel, cultural events, conferences, scholarships and philanthropy,” said Diana Femia, Regional Director for the new D.C. area chapter.
Established in 1980, NOIAW supports the educational and professional aspirations of its members and combats ethnic stereotypes by promoting positive role models.
“We are a professional and philanthropic organization for those who wish to enhance and cultivate their interest and pride in Italian heritage and culture,” said Dr. Riotto Sirey. For more information, go to the NOIAW website at: www.noiaw.org.
PICTURED ABOVE: Jan Fenty, Janet Spadola, Carol Silvagni Macleod, Aileen Riotto Sirey, and Diana Femia
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