Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
UNICO National held its midyear board of directors meeting in Chicago from March 7-9. The centerpiece of the weekend was an awards banquet at the Embassy Suites hotel in Rosemont on March 8, where two Italian Americans were honored for their outstanding contributions to their community and their respective fields.
The Guglielmo Marconi Science Award was presented to Dr. Carl D. Marci, a Boston-based physician, scientist, entrepreneur and author. Marci is the chief clinical officer and managing director of mental health and neuroscience at OM1, a venture-backed health-data company that uses artificial intelligence to improve patient outcomes.
A Special Achievement Award was bestowed upon attorney Jack Cerone, a Chicago-area restaurateur, community and business leader, and labor lawyer. Cerone has held prominent positions with the Chicago West Suburban Chapter of UNICO National, Justinian Society of Lawyers, National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame and Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans.
“We are honored to recognize these remarkable Italian American leaders for their exceptional accomplishments,” said UNICO National President Anthony Bengivenga. “Their unwavering commitment to service and community exemplifies the spirit of Italian American excellence and aligns perfectly with UNICO’s core values.”
Attendees were treated to a special dinner on March 7 at the Des Plaines Theatre, hosted by Ron Onesti, president of Onesti Entertainment and the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans. Onesti presented UNICO National officers with commemorative Columbus coins as keepsakes from their visit.
The 102nd annual UNICO National convention and Italian American awards gala is scheduled for Aug. 2 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
