GREATER WASHINGTON DC REGION OF OF ITALIAN AMERICAN WOMEN ORGANIZATION HONORS CONNIE MORELLA DANA PERINO AND RITA CARDILLO- CARTY.

  Washington, DC.– The Greater Washington DC Region of the National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW) held an Epiphany Celebration on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, at Il Mulino Restaurant in Washington DC to honor three Italian American women who are exceptional leaders and role models in their respective fields.

Being honored that evening were Rita Cardillo Carty Ph.D., Professor and Dean Emeritus, George Mason University, College of Nursing and Health Science; Honorable Constance A. Morella, former U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development and former Congresswoman from the Eighth District in Maryland; and Dana Perino, former White House Press Secretary for President George W. Bush. The three women were introduced by U.S. Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro of Connecticut.

“Our honorees are such wonderful examples of women who are successful in their chosen careers.  They are truly great role models for young women of Italian ancestry and we are fortunate to have them with us,” commented Diana Femia, President of the Greater Washington DC Region of NOIAW.

The proceeds from the Epiphany Celebration helped to support all of NOIAW’s programs.  Some of these programs include the Mentor Program which pairs young Italian American women with established professionals as mentors; the Scholarship Program which provides financial assistance to students so that they may realize their dreams; and the Cultural Exchange Program which sends young Italian American women on educational group trips to Italy.  NOIAW also provides ongoing cultural, social, and networking programs and events.

NOIAW was founded in 1980 and continues to be the premier, non-profit, leadership organization for women of Italian heritage.  Today, NOIAW’s network includes more than 1,000 members and affiliates, and the organization is internationally recognized for promoting the accomplishments of Italian American women, and supporting the educational and professional advancement of women of Italian ancestry.

For more information about NOIAW, member go to www.noiaw.org or call the National Office at (212) 642-2003.