Italian American Foundation names Lazio this year’s Region of Honor

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Italian American Foundation recently announced the Italian region of Lazio as its designated Region of Honor for 2025. This historic region, home to Rome, the capital of Italy, and steeped in profound significance, marks a momentous year as it coincides with both the Jubilee Year and NIAF’s 50th anniversary.

“NIAF is thrilled to celebrate the extraordinary Lazio region during this landmark year,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “From its unparalleled historical heritage to its vibrant modern essence, Lazio embodies the depth and dynamism of Italian excellence.”

“I am glad and honored that Lazio will be the 2025 NIAF Region of Honor. I am sure that this circumstance will help to boost our already flourishing relations with the United States, and that it will be useful to raise awareness on all that our Region has to offer in terms of beauty and heritage, but also in the field of high technology and innovation,” added President of the Region Lazio Francesco Rocca.

The region offers an extraordinary tapestry of experiences that spans millennia of human civilization. Lazio stands as a testament to historical continuity, serving as the heartland of pivotal civilizations: the birthplace of the Etruscan civilization, the central stage of the Roman Republic, the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the core of the Papal States, a key territory of the Kingdom of Italy, and now a vibrant part of the Italian Republic.

From the rolling hills of the countryside to the architectural marvels of its urban centers, Lazio represents a microcosm of Italian cultural richness, blending natural beauty with centuries of human achievement and innovation.

The NIAF Board of Directors looks forward to its annual Mission to Italy trip to the region. During the visit, the Board will meet with regional government representatives and tour numerous cities, highlighting Lazio’s historical and contemporary significance.

The Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program will send 48 Italian American collegiate students to explore Lazio, providing them a profound connection to their ancestral roots and the region’s illustrious legacy.

A delegation from Lazio will participate in NIAF’s New York Gala on April 10th and the Washington, D.C., Gala on Oct. 18, which will be held at the historic Washington Hilton Hotel and commemorate NIAF’s 50th anniversary.