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

(WASHINGTON, DC — February 28, 2003) Beginning this year, the NIAF will honor an Italian teacher for excellence in Italian language and culture classroom education with its latest education award. The NIAF Italian Teacher of the Year Award will be announced in September 2003. The recipient will be recognized at the NIAF education luncheon held in conjunction with the Foundation’s annual gala and convention weekend on October 24, 2003.

Application post-mark deadline: June 27, 2003

The award recipient will receive a continuing education stipend for study in Italy at either the University of Siena or the University of Perugia in a specialized course designed for teachers of the Italian language for foreigners, “Corso di Aggiornamento per Insegnanti All”Estero” (Refresher Course for Foreign Teachers) during the summer of 2004. Expenses paid will include: transportation between the US and Perugia/Siena; tuition; course fees; accommodations; and a daily food stipend at the University cafeteria.

The NIAF Italian Teacher of the Year recipient will also have the opportunity to present a paper or serve on a panel during the annual meeting of the American Association of Teachers of Italian in Philadelphia, November 21 & 22, 2003. The winner will receive roundtrip transportation to/from Philadelphia, two nights’ hotel accommodations and a stipend for travel related expenses.

An award committee of professionals will select the NIAF Italian Teacher of the Year. All nominees will be notified in early September. For information regarding eligibility requirements, application procedures, and a printable application, visit www.niaf.org/TeacherOfTheYear. To request an application form, write to:

NIAF Teacher of the Year Award
1860 19th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009