Association Hosts Scholarship Dinner, Announces Festival Return
The Mercer County Italian American Festival Association (MCIAF) held its annual Scholarship Dinner on May 12 at Leonardo’s Restaurant in Lawrenceville, celebrating both local student achievement and the long-awaited return of a beloved community tradition.
Four local students — Alessandra Santoro, Ava Longo, Lucia Dabbene, and Gianna D’Errico — each received $1,000 scholarships for their academic excellence and dedication to preserving Italian American heritage. The awards were presented by MCIAFA President John Scarpati Jr., New Jersey 101.5 radio personality Dennis Malloy, and educator Erica Funari, who praised the recipients as future leaders in the Italian American community.
The association recently announced that the Mercer County Italian American Festival will return this fall for the first time in five years. Scheduled for October 4 and 5 at Mercer County Park, the festival will once again bring together families from across the region to enjoy traditional Italian food, music, art, and entertainment.
“This event is more than a festival — it’s a celebration of our shared culture and values,” said Scarpati. “We’re thrilled to bring it back, but we need the community’s help.”
MCIAFA is currently seeking sponsors, vendors, and volunteers to ensure the festival’s success. The organization welcomes local businesses, artisans, and food vendors to join in what promises to be a landmark cultural event.
For more information on festival participation or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.italianamericanfestival.com.
