The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival (WVIHF) is proud to announce its 2025 slate of honorees who will be recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the Italian-American community in West Virginia and beyond. These individuals exemplify dedication, cultural pride, and service to others.
This year’s honorees will be formally recognized at the Honoree Awards Ceremony and Dinner on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the Bridgeport Conference Center.
Tickets for the event can be purchased HERE
The 2025 Honorees are:
- Joseph “Rocky” Romano– Italian-American Man of the Year (bio can be found HERE)
- Sara Brunetti Aman– Italian-American Woman of the Year (bio can be found HERE
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- Edward Aman, Jr.– Honorary Italian Man of the Year (bio can be found HERE)
- Shirlene Shreve Isabella– Honorary Italian Woman of the Year (bio can be found HERE)
- Maria Spatafore– Samuel F. & Lucia D’Annunzio Italian Mother of the Year (bio can be found HERE)
- Kathryn Beto DeMary– Italian Mother of the Year (Posthumously Awarded) (bio can be found HERE)
- Richard Iaquinta– Lifetime Achievement Award (bio can be found HERE)
- David Mazza– Excellence in Education Award (bio can be found HERE)
- Pamela Pinti Krall– Parade Marshal (bio can be found HERE)
“These individuals represent the best of our community,” said Honorees Committee Chair Rocky Romano II. “Their achievements in education, public service, family, and leadership are a testament to the values and legacy of our Italian heritage.”
The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival, now in its 46th year, is one of the premier cultural events in the state, drawing thousands to celebrate Italian-American heritage through music, food, and tradition.