About the NELA

Each year since 1989, the Sons of Italy Foundation has honored outstanding Italian American scholars, business leaders and humanitarians at a gala event in Washington, D.C. The National Education & Leadership Awards (NELA) Gala is the SIF's most important fund-raising and public affairs event and also highlights the foundation's commitment to educational excellence, leadership and the betterment of society.

At the NELA Gala each year, 10 to 12 of the brightest and most talented scholars of Italian descent, chosen from a highly selective national competition, receive substantial awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to accredited colleges and universities. The SIF also recognizes its annual award recipients, who are well-known Italian Americans with outstanding records in their professions and communities.

The hallmark of the SIF's public affairs program, the NELA Gala has traditionally been attended by the U.S president and other leaders in government, business, sports, labor, entertainment, the arts and the media.

Past Honorees