The National Italian American Foundation

Overview of Sophia's role in the Foundation 

Digital Marketing: 

• Develop and execute impactful social media strategies aligned with organizational objectives across all platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, LinkedIn, and X).

• Produce culturally relevant content for the Italian American community, leveraging influencer marketing and storytelling to connect with thousands of followers. 

• Actively engage with followers fostering a sense of community.

• Utilize analytics tools to measure campaign effectiveness and inform strategic decisions.

• Plan and execute paid social media advertising campaigns.

Outreach:

• Attend NIAF galas, dinners, and events capturing moments on social media, assisting with pre-event planning, preparation and post-event takedown.

• Collaborate closely with international partners to promote NIAF’s presence in Italy, contributing to the expansion of the membership base and strengthening global connections.

• Lead and capture NIAF’s student program the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery: a two-week long all expenses paid trip to Italy for college students. 

NIAF Social Media

As NIAF's Manager of Digital Marketing & Outreach, I’ve implemented a dynamic approach to social media management, combining video content creation, influencer partnerships, and targeted campaigns to expand the foundation's reach across platforms. By creating engaging video content, I’ve helped showcase NIAF’s events, honorees, and cultural initiatives in a visually compelling way. Collaborating with influencers has further amplified our message to a broader, yet targeted, audience. In addition, I utilize data-driven insights to tailor our content, track follower trends, and schedule regular, impactful posts. These strategies have collectively boosted NIAF’s digital presence, increasing engagement and followers across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

NIAF's Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery

The Voyage of Discovery is a two-week all expenses paid trip to Italy for Italian American college students sponsored by the National Italian American Foundation. This trip features two groups of 25 students from across the United States for a trip to Italy every June. A major part of my role is to plan, organize, attend, lead, and capture these trips. I have lead the

 Summer 2023 Voyage of Discovery to Rome and the region of Emilia-Romagna

Summer 2024 Voyage of Discovery to Milan the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia

NIAF Events

As the Manager of Digital Marketing and Outreach, Sophia plays a key role in capturing the essence of NIAF’s events. She transforms event highlights into compelling social media content and digital campaigns, showcasing the essence of each event while elevating the NIAF's brand. 

Annual Galas

October is Italian Heritage Month and NIAF has been celebrating for nearly 50 years! Every October since its founding in 1975, NIAF has held a gala in Washington, D.C. that celebrates the achievements of the Italian American Community. A NIAF Gala is known for its grandeur and sophistication. Its brings together a diverse and influential group of prominent Italians and Italian American from all fields including poltics, business, and entertainment. The goal of a NIAF anniversary gala is to honor individuals of Italian descent who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields. Some past NIAF honorees include by are not limited to Sophia Loren, Martin Scorsese, Sylvester Stallone, Andrea Bocelli, Roberto Begnini....the list can go on and on! 

In addition to a gala every October, NIAF also hosts a spring gala in New York City. This takes place at the iconic Italian NYC venue Cipirani 42nd Street and highlights the very best of the northeastern Italian American Community. 

Regional Events  

NIAF’s regional events are key to expanding the foundation’s presence and celebrating Italian culture across the country. These events provide opportunities to engage local communities while showcasing NIAF’s national influence.