About Us
The Italian American Policy Center (IAPC) is an independent, non-partisan, policy institute that promotes and engages in policy discussions and research focused on the intersection of Italian Americans and progressive public policy, both in the United States and in Italy.
IAPC focuses on foreign and domestic policy, including but not limited to immigration, trans-Atlantic security, trade relations with Italy, climate change, and social justice.
IAPC promotes educational awareness of Italian heritage, history, language, and culture in the United States to forge a more inclusive community both nationally and abroad.
The Corporation aims to plan and stage conferences, develop and circulate surveys to stakeholders within the Italian American Community, as well as prepare research papers on various topics that resonate within the Italian American community.
Italian American Policy Center Board
(In Formation)
President/Board of Directors
Arthur Gajarsa is a senior counsel of Wilmer Hale. US Circuit Judge from 1996 to 2012. His career includes service at the Department of Commerce, Department of the Interior and Department of Defense.
Executive Director
Brenda Lucchi is a partner in a political consulting firm in the DC area and served in the political department of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Also was the principal of a Montessori elementary and middle school in Maryland.
Secretary/Board of Directors
Sarah Riggs Amico is a former Executive Chair in Jack Cooper, her family’s trucking company. She earned her MBA from Harvard Business School.
Board of Directors
Antonino Foti is a former member of the Italian Parliament, in addition to his public service, has been an outstanding leader in positions relating to economic development for Italy, such as IPI. He was also one of the founders of the Magna Grecia Foundation and has been its President since 1997.
Board of Directors
Susan Molinari is a company executive, journalist and lobbyist for New York. Also is a former U.S. Congresswoman, who represented New York’s 14th and 13th District, and she served as a New York City Councilwoman.
Board of Directors
Connie Morella is a former Ambassador to the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development. Also is a former U.S. Congresswoman, who represented Maryland’s 8 th District.
Treasurer/Board of Directors
Elizabeth O’Connell is a business development specialist with Catholic Relief Services. She has extensive experience in strategic partnerships, capacity-building, public engagement and program development strategies for national non-profits. She has raised over $35 million since 2020 for health and nutrition programs.
Board of Directors
John Porcari is a former United States Deputy Secretary of Transportation. Also is a former vice president for administrative affairs at the University of Maryland, College Park.