Stefano Albertini has been awarded the title of Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic

Stefano Albertini, Professor of Italian Literature at New York University (NYU) and Director of NYU’s Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò for 30 years, has been awarded the title of Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

This title, presented by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, is one of the highest honors in Italy and recognizes Professor Albertini’s contributions to promoting Italian culture not only in classrooms but also to the broader New York public, even throughout the pandemic. Casa Italiana, which under Albertini’s leadership produces over 100 events a year— including concerts, exhibitions, book presentations, film screenings, theater performances, and international conferences—skillfully adapted to the lockdown, creating digital content and broadcasts that reached beyond New York and the United States, continuing its mission of promoting Italian culture free from stereotypes.

The award was presented on October 28, 2024, by the Consul General of New York, Fabrizio Di Michele, during a private ceremony at the consulate’s headquarters on Park Avenue.