Christina Marraccini of Harrison, New York, whose roots are in Sicily and Lazio,  has been selected as Miss Italia USA 2009.  The contest is part of the final round of competition prior to the Miss Italia nel Mondo (Miss Italy in The World) beauty pageant. She had previously won the New York title in February.

The selection was made after a week-long event with a field of 47 finalists from around the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.

Christina will travel to Jesolo near Venice to compete on June 27, against 49 other contestants from all over the world for the title Miss Italia nel Mondo 2009.

Christina, 18, is a senior at Harrison High School where she is a student/athlete, involved in several sports, clubs and other extra-curricular activities. She has also received several awards. She will major in communication at Lehigh University.

When Voce Italiana asked Christina why was the MIss Italia nel Mondo so important, she told us that it was important " because it gives Italian Americans a chance to reconnect with their culture.  This is my first time participating in an event like this, and I am very fortunate to be able to have this opportunity.  I have always wanted to visit Italy, and what better way to experience the country than as Miss Italia USA." 

(Pictured above, Christina Marraccini with Italian Ambassador Giovanni Castellaneta; pictured right, Christina Marraccini at Italian Embassy in Washington) (Photos Isgro)