New Brunswick, N.J.— The New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission (NJIHC), and Foundation for Innovation and Excellence in Italian Teaching (FIEIT) and UNICO National, the largest Italian American service organization in the United States, are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a collaborative partnership to support and expand Italian language education, cultural awareness, leadership development, and community engagement throughout New Jersey.

The partnership brings together three organizations with a shared commitment to preserving and promoting Italian heritage, language, and culture while creating meaningful educational opportunities for students across the state of New Jersey.

As part of this collaboration, the organizations will support the implementation and growth of INSIEME, UNICO National’s groundbreaking high school initiative designed to strengthen Italian language education while expanding opportunities for cultural engagement, service, leadership, and mentorship.  The partnership also aligns with the mission of FIEIT (Foundation for Innovation and Excellence in Italian Teaching), recently launched through Rutgers University Italian Department in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in New York, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other key partners. FIEIT is dedicated to advancing Italian language education by expanding access to high-quality Italian language programs throughout New Jersey. “FIEIT was created to expand access to excellence in Italian language education through innovation, collaboration, and advocacy. This partnership represents an important milestone in bringing together educational institutions, community organizations, and cultural leaders to support students and strengthen Italian language learning throughout New Jersey,” said Dr. Carmela Scala, President of the Foundation for Innovation and Excellence in Italian Teaching (FIEIT.)

“The New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission is proud to support this important initiative,” said Chairman Vincent Maione, of the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission. “Italian language and cultural education are critical components of our mission. Through collaboration with UNICO National and FIEIT, we can further expand educational opportunities that preserve and promote Italian heritage and culture for students throughout New Jersey.”

“At UNICO National, we believe that preserving our heritage begins by investing in all generations. This partnership with the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission and FIEIT represents an important milestone in expanding opportunities for students to experience the richness of Italian language, culture, leadership, and service,” said UNICO National President, Joesph Nasello. “Through INSIEME, we are creating meaningful pathways that connect education with community engagement, ensuring that Italian American heritage continues to inspire future generations. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in ensuring that Italian cultural education remains vibrant, accessible, and relevant for generations to come.

About the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission

The New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission is a state-level educational commission dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing awareness of Italian and Italian American history, culture, and contributions through educational programming and resources throughout New Jersey.

About FIEIT

The Foundation for Innovation and Excellence in Italian Teaching (FIEIT) at Rutgers University is dedicated to expanding access to Italian language education through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and support for educators and students. Working closely with the Consulate General of Italy in New York, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other partners, FIEIT seeks to strengthen Italian language instruction across the region.

About UNICO National

UNICO National is the largest Italian American service organization in the United States. Founded in 1922, UNICO promotes Italian heritage, culture, education, and charitable service through chapters across the country.