FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Washington, D.C. – April 4, 2024) – The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) proudly announces the appointment of Paolo Messa as its Executive Vice President of International Relations and Strategic Partnerships.

Messa brings over 20 years of distinguished experience working at senior levels within major Italian institutions, corporations, and government entities. Most recently, he served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Leonardo US Corporation, and he currently holds the position of Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Europe Center of the Atlantic Council.

“We are honored to have Paolo Messa join NIAF in this crucial role enhancing our international relations and strategic partnerships,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “His extensive background working with influential Italian institutions, companies, and government bodies makes him an ideal ambassador to represent NIAF’s mission of promoting ties between the United States and Italy.”

As Executive Vice President, Messa will lead NIAF’s International Relations team and lead efforts to organize programs, events, and initiatives aimed at strengthening business, political, and cultural connections between the two nations.

Prior to his tenure at Leonardo, Messa served as the Executive Director of the Center for American Studies in Rome and sat on the board of RAI, Italy’s public broadcasting company. He founded the respected foreign policy publication Formiche in 2004. An author and professor, Messa holds memberships with prestigious think tanks such as the Atlantic Council and the European Council on Foreign Relations.

“I am thrilled to join NIAF and put my experience to work furthering cooperation and exchanges between the United States and Italy,” said Messa. “These two nations share an enduring bond through millions of Italian Americans well represented in the U.S. Congress and broader institutions. NIAF plays a vital role in nurturing that special relationship across business, government, culture, and more.”

Messa will be based in Washington D.C. and will frequently travel to Italy.

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CONTACT:
NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino & Partners USA:
Cristina Lenoci
Consultant
212-308-8710
c.lenoci@barabinousa.com

About NIAF
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.