Marriott's Anthony Capuano, ESPN NFL National Correspondent Sal Paolantonio, retired U.S. Army Generals Bob Caslen Jr. and Tom Cosentino, Business Leaders Joe Moglia and Kyle Cerminara, and former Congressman John Mica are among the Special Guests
FAIRFIELD, N.J., July 10, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Sal Paolantonio, ESPN national correspondent who primarily covers the National Football League, will host the Italian American Awards Gala on July 29, 2023. The black-tie gala, hosted by UNICO National, features hundreds of prominent Italian Americans from across the nation who come together to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Italian Americans in the United States. The nation's more than 16 million Italian Americans are interwoven into the fabric of the U.S. and have significantly contributed to the arts, entertainment, sports, business, law, science, medicine, technology, national defense, public service and more.
Kyle Cerminara, Co-founder & CEO of Fundamental Global, joins Marriott International President & CEO Anthony Capuano, as honorees who will be recognized for their business leadership. Mr. Cerminara has over 25 years' experience as an institutional investor, asset manager, director, chief executive, founder and operator of multiple financial services and technology businesses. Mr. Capuano presides over the world's largest hospitality company and some of the most iconic brands in travel and has been instrumental in Marriott's steady growth. Joe Moglia, former CEO & Chairman of TD Ameritrade and head football coach of Coastal Carolina University, will present the award to fellow business leader Mr. Capuano. Mr. Moglia joins James Pitaro, ESPN Chairman, as the honorary chairmen of the UNICO 100th Anniversary Convention and are past UNICO National honorees recognized for their distinguished leadership.
Congressman John Mica will be recognized for his distinguished public service leadership to our nation. Congressman Mica represented Florida's 7th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives where he served as the chairman of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. He is recognized as one of the nation's leaders in transportation and played a critical role in stabilizing America's aviation industry following the September 11 terrorist attack.
Army Generals Bob Caslen Jr. and Tom Cosentino will be recognized for their distinguished military service to the nation. Lieutenant General Bob Caslen, Jr. U.S. Army (Ret.) is a veteran who honorably served our military for 43 years. His military career culminated in 2018 as the 59th Superintendent/President of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Brigadier General Tom Cosentino, U.S. Army (Ret.), currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Business Executives for National Security. His Army career included numerous operational and strategic assignments over a 30-year span highlighted by serving as the 28th Commandant of the National War College. Gunnery Sergeant Christopher A. Obdyke will also be recognized for his distinguished military service in the U.S. Marine Corps, as well as his law enforcement service with the New York Police Department.
"The UNICO National 100th Annual Convention celebrates the important contributions Italian Americans have made to the United States. We are proud to recognize these distinguished honorees who have made a significant impact to our nation, democracy, economy, and communities. They are proven leaders who have succeeded at the highest level and are shining examples of the Italian American community," said incoming UNICO National President Cav. Ralph Contini.
The 100th Annual Convention, presented by Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets, will be a historic event. Bringing the UNICO National 100th Annual Convention to Fort Myers, Florida is also an effort to support the rebuilding and revitalization of the area following the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian. UNICO, with chapters located across the nation and in Florida, hopes to help the local economy and recovery of the region.
This year's award recipients join a distinguished group of UNICO honorees who exemplify the best of the Italian American community. Past UNICO honorees include sports greats Dan Marino, Phil Esposito, Joe Montana, Joe Torre, Mario Andretti, Geno Auriemma, John Calipari, Tommy Lasorda, public service leaders General Anthony Zinni, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, science and medicine leaders Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Robert Gallo, and Dr. Domenico Praticò, as well as others who have excelled in their respective fields and contributed to the United States. In 2024, UNICO will honor Ralph LaRossa, President & CEO of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG), at its 101st Annual Convention in New Jersey, which will be hosted by media personality, Erin Como, of Fox 5 DC television.
The gala supports the important nonprofit mission of UNICO. Founded in 1922 on the principle of Service Above Self, every year UNICO provides scholarships and charitable assistance totaling approximately one million dollars. UNICO supports mental health wellness, cancer research and prevention, food banks, shelters, and other local community needs. UNICO also preserves the heritage and culture of Italian Americans and serves as a link promoting closer relations between the United States and Italy.
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UNICO National, UNICO National, 2027500248, [email protected]
SOURCE UNICO National
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