About Us
About National Copilas
The Council for the Promotion of the Italian Lanuage in American Schools (COPILAS) is a National non-profit organization dedicated to assisting individuals, associations and communities around the United States, desiring to introduce or broaden the study of Italian language and culture in their public and private schools, colleges and universities.
It is made up of representatives from Italian and U.S. education agencies, Italian American cultural organizations, educators and interested private individuals. All are experts in their respective fields, and are committed to promoting the study of Italian language and culture in the United States.
COPILAS is glad to help all types of elementary and secondary schools needing assistance, but also Colleges and Universities desiring to establish Italian Programs leading to the certification in Italian.
COPILAS Mission Statement
The National Council for the Promotion of the Italian Language in American Schools, “COPILAS” is a 501 (C) (3) that was established in 1999 to assist communities, organizations, and individuals throughout the U.S. interested in introducing or broadening the study of Italian language and culture in public and private schools, colleges, and universities.
Directors & Directors at large : 2016-2017
OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Dr. Daniel L. Stabile
Vice President: Cav. Pino Cicala
Treasurer: James W. Cocco, CPA
Secretary: Dr. Daria Mizza
Past President: Dr. Joseph Lupo
Director: Dennis Santoli
Director: Dr. Roberto Severino
Director: Fr. Lydio Tomasi
Emeritus Permanent Director: Dr. Maria G. Wilmeth (Deceased)
Ex officio member: Professor Maria Fusco, Embassy of Italy
DIRECTORS AT LARGE
Fr. Michele Benetti, Bishop O’Connell High School
Dr. Antonio C. Vitti, Past President of the American Association of Teachers of Italian Language (AATI), Professor of Italian Cinema and Literature, University of Indiana
Dr. Anna DeFina, Professor of Italian Language, Georgetown University
Dr. Donatella Melucci, Visiting Professor of Italian Language, Georgetown University
Dr. Francesca Memoli, Director, Academia Italiana Salerno, Italy
