About NOIAW

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The National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW) is the premier organization for women of Italian heritage that is committed to preserving Italian heritage, language and culture by promoting and supporting the advancement of women of Italian ancestry.  NOIAW serves its members through cultural programs and networking opportunities, and supports young women through nationally acclaimed scholarship, mentoring and cultural exchange programs.

Our organization  is a sisterhood of diverse women from varied professional backgrounds. Members include doctors, lawyers, artists, scientists, nurses, businesswomen, educators, writers, judges, and women working in the home. It is the only national membership organization for women of Italian ancestry.

NOIAW sponsored events are educational, cultural and social in nature and focus on issues of interest to Italian American women. The programs recognize and promote the accomplishments and contributions of women of Italian ancestry as well as acknowledge women as keepers of the culture. Through our mentor program, graduate and undergraduate students and women returning to the work force, are matched with NOIAW members in the same field who provide guidance and on going support. Scholarships are awarded each year to Italian American women to assist them financially in pursuing their education. NOIAW is committed to preserving Italian heritage, language, and culture while simultaneously promoting and supporting the advancement of women of Italian ancestry.

NOIAW was founded in 1980 under the leadership of Dr. Aileen Riotto Sirey and a small group of Italian American women who sought to create a national network to support the educational and professional aspirations of its members and to combat ethnic stereotypes by promoting positive role models. Today, NOIAW has evolved into an international organization bringing together women of Italian ancestry nationwide with women in Italy, Argentina and Australia through international events and conferences.