Award-winning media strategist and newly appointed member of the NOIAW Board of Directors, Gemma Puglisi is an assistant professor at American University in the School of Communication’s Public Communication Division. Professor Puglisi’s work has been published in Quill Magazine, Huffington Post, and the Washington Post to name a few. In 2006, she was conferred the honor of the “Order of the Star” and knighted by the Republic of Italy for her contributions to education and promoting the Italian language. Since joining NOIAW, Gemma has met “so many remarkable women, not only in DC, but throughout the country” and feels “great to share our heritage.” Professor Puglisi believes since joining NOIAW she has had a great connection with Italian American Women that keeps her memory of her parents going and honors the traditions.