April 8, 1999

The Columbians of New Jersey Support New Programs To Enhance Italian Culture and History at Ramapo

(Mahwah) – The Ramapo College Foundation recently announced an endowment by The Columbians, Inc. of New Jersey that will introduce a new lecture series and provide a scholarship fund for students interested in the College’s Study Abroad program to Rome.

The first project is the underwriting of The Columbian Fulbright Lecture Series which will bring to the campus community scholars of Italian heritage whose expertise covers a variety of cultural, art and historical subjects. The first lecture is "Who Were The Greeks?" presented by Dr. Michele Faraguna, on Tuesday, April 13, 7 p.m. in the Mansion York Room at Ramapo College of New Jersey. A noted researcher in ancient history and a member of the faculty at the University of Trieste, Dr. Faraguna is a specialist in Greek history. He is presently a Fulbright Scholar-In-Residence at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey.

The other project is a scholarship fund to assist Ramapo students who are planning to participate in this summer’s Study Abroad program to Rome (June 3 – July 5). Students will be awarded scholarships to aid in covering expenses thanks to The Columbians. A.J. Graceffo, chairman of the Scholarship Committee and Columbian trustee, will present the recipients their scholarships on Tuesday, April 13.

"Historically, The Columbians have provided numerous educational opportunities to Ramapo students," says Terence W. Miller, director of international and intercultural education at Ramapo. "The creation of this endowment allows the College to offer students scholarships permitting them to have an academic experience in Italy. The Columbian Fulbright Lecture Series is a unique opportunity to bring Italian Fulbright scholars to campus and expose the community to the vibrant Italian culture, history and art."

Anthony W. Graceffo, president of The Columbians says, "This endowment allows us to continue our commitment to provide educational opportunities to financially disadvantaged students and to provide the community an opportunity to learm more about Italian culture."

A non-profit philanthropic organization, The Columbians Inc. of New Jersey is made up of Italian-American business leaders and professionals and has raised more than one million dollars for scholarships, hardships and cultural/heritage programs.