FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:   Elissa Ruffino (NIAF)  202/939-3106202/939-3106 or elissa@niaf.org

(WASHINGTON, DC – November 19, 2001) The Gift of Discovery, an educational and cultural program, will be sponsored for the second year by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). Last year, over 120 Italian American students participated in the expenses-paid program to increase cultural awareness and an understanding of Italy and their Italian heritage.

The 10-day Gift of Discovery includes round-trip airfare between the U.S. (New York City) and Italy; nine nights’ accommodations; nine buffet-style breakfasts and ten dinners or lunches; two full-day and three half-day escorted tours, and transfers from the airport and hotel. Cultural lectures, meetings with governmental officials, business leaders and visits to governmental offices, international businesses, museums, and other educational attractions are part of the trip itinerary.

All participants must be Italian American students between the ages of 18 and 23 at the time of travel. Application must be postmarked by December 31, 2001. For more information and application, visit www.niaf.org/giftofdiscovery