Sparkling drinks, candlelight, and laughter filled the room as attendees and Sisters enjoyed “A Night in Codogno.” Held on Friday, October 11th at the Metropolitan Club in New York City, the event was inspired by the rustic charm of Codogno, Italy—the town where Mother Cabrini founded Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus religious order in 1880.
The evening’s ambiance was set with beautiful vines, Italian delicacies, and lively music, immersing guests in the true spirit of Italy: family, tradition, and togetherness.
The Foundation honored two remarkable individuals: David DeCerbo, Esq. and Cristiana Dell’Anna—both of whom share stories of humble beginnings, perseverance, and inspiring success.
David DeCerbo, recipient of the Mother Cabrini Lifetime of Service Award, is a successful attorney specializing in health policy, legislation, and law. His relationship with the Missionary Sisters began almost 50 years ago, during his tenure as Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs at Cabrini Medical Center on 19th Street in Manhattan. Continuing to provide legal services to the Missionary Sisters throughout the years, he went on to make partner at a firm that is Nixon Peabody today. Notably, David filed the paperwork to establish the Cabrini Mission Foundation and has been a dedicated member of our board since its inception 26 years ago.
The Spirit of Cabrini Award was presented to Cristiana Dell’Anna, an exceptionally talented actress whose career has taken her from the streets of Naples to the stages of London and the big screen. Cristiana’s portrayal of Mother Cabrini in the film Cabrini has brought her recognition, including being named Best European Actress at the Septimus Awards. Cristiana made her big screen debut in the psychological thriller Third Contact and but she has also played popular roles in the Italian soap opera Un posto al sole, as Patrizia in the second season of Gomorra as well as in the 2022 Netflix Movie – “Toscana.”
As the night drew to a close, guests left with full hearts and satisfied appetites, just as one might after a true evening in Codogno.
