© 2021 The Italian Community of Akron, Inc., Le Radici | All Rights Reserved
Organization History
September 10, 1997, Giovanni Catalano and Guido Cornacchione gathered their thoughts about creating
an Italian/American Club.
Founders
Giovanni Catalano, Guido Cornacchione, Gino Pelligra, Gino Brienza, Bill Basso, Emilio Cornacchione,
Jack Anello, Nicola Mammone,
Marco Beggiato, Domenico Cornacchione, John Petzker, Robert Frattaioli and Steve Chiarappa.
Association Name
January, 1998, the association name was established. 'The Italian Cultural Association' was created as a
non-profit organization.
First Officers
Giovanni Catalano - President, Gino Brienza - Vice-President, Steve Chiarappa - Treasurer, Emillio
Cornacchione - Secretary
Organization Nickname
Suggested by Marco Beggiato, 'Le Radici' (The Roots) was adopted.
Incorporated
January, 1999, incorporated under 'The Italian Community of Akron' as a charitable organization.
Mission Statement
The Italian Community of Akron, Inc. (Ohio), 'Le Radici' was established to serve the Italian-
American community of Akron, surrounding communities and all those who love Italy. The main
objective of our association is to promote educational & cultural activities introducing to the
community the different facets of Italian culture. We provide charitable fundraising with
Italian themes. Le Radici targets the whole community with no distinction of regional origin or
age group. We are a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization and place an emphasis on supporting our
community.
The Italian Community of Akron, Inc., Le Radici
Elected Officers for 2019 - 2020
President: Patrick DiLullo
1st Vice President: Debbie Miller
2nd Vice President: Mary Josephine (MJ) Parri
Treasurer: Giovanni Catalano
Secretary: Roseanne Henderson
Sergeant-at-Arms: Cody Ricci
Parliamentarian: David Young
Trustees: Sarah DiLullo, Tony Berlinigieri, Kay Corsaro
Current Officers