Stefano Albertini, Director of Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò and Professor of Italian Literature and Cinema at New York University (NYU), has been awarded the prestigious title of Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. This honor, conferred by President Sergio Mattarella, recognizes Albertini’s work in promoting Italian culture among students and New Yorkers.
Originally from Bozzolo in the province of Mantua, Stefano Albertini has dedicated over thirty years to Casa Italiana, transforming it into a vibrant cultural center and fostering intercultural dialogue. With an interdisciplinary background and a deep commitment to Italian culture, Albertini has become a prominent figure not only in New York but also internationally, making a significant contribution to the spread of the Italian language and traditions.
Under Albertini’s leadership, Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò has become a cultural beacon in New York, hosting annual events including concerts, exhibitions, film screenings, and theatrical performances. During the lockdown, the institution continued to offer a rich cultural program through digital initiatives—a testament to its adaptability and resilience in keeping Italian culture alive.
The award was officially presented on October 28, 2024, in a ceremony held at the Italian Consulate in New York. In an emotional speech, Albertini expressed his gratitude not only to President Mattarella but also to Consul General Fabrizio Di Michele, emphasizing the importance of New York’s support for his work. “Serving Italy means not only following a script but celebrating the beauty of our country’s diversity,” the professor remarked.
Among those present at the ceremony were notable figures in the Italian cultural community in New York, such as Nicola Lucchi and Stella Levi, the Auschwitz survivor and co-founder of the Primo Levi Center, now in her 100s.
