National Organization of Italian American Women

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The National Organization of Italian American Women (NOIAW) is an American sisterhood group founded in 1980 to represent Italian American women of varied professional backgrounds.

NOIAW was founded by 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.

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 its 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 has evolved into an international organization bringing together women of Italian ancestry throught the United States with women in Italy, Argentina and Australia through international events and conferences.