Members Newsletters & Updates

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2025
Vancouver, BC

From the Field to the Front of the Class: Dino Alberti Named Italian Canadian of the Year.

Award to be formally celebrated at the 121st Annual Christopher Columbus Banquet & Dance – October 4, 2025

The Confratellanza Italo Canadese Society proudly announces Dino Alberti as the 2025 Italian Canadian of the Year, in recognition of his lifelong contributions to sport, education, and the promotion of Italian culture in British Columbia.

The announcement took place in the Italian Gardens at Hastings Park, where Mr. Alberti was joined by Marco Zanatta, President of the Confratellanza Italo Canadese Society, and Justin DeGenova, Chair of the Italian Canadian of the Year Award Committee.

An accomplished athlete and dedicated educator, Mr. Alberti is admired for his discipline, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community—traits that have defined both his athletic and professional life. For over two decades, he has served as a principal within the Catholic Independent Schools of the Vancouver Archdiocese, shaping inclusive and culturally vibrant school environments.

“Dino represents the values of integrity, leadership, and cultural pride that this award was created to honour,” said Justin DeGenova. “He builds teams, strengthens communities, and leads by example.”

Mr. Alberti has championed cultural inclusion in education, proudly sharing his Italian heritage through initiatives like after-school Italian language programs and integrating Italian stories, cuisine, and traditions into school life. His work has empowered countless students to embrace their own roots while celebrating the diversity of others.

“Dino has always brought people together,” added Marco Zanatta. “His professional accomplishments are impressive, but it’s his commitment to service that truly defines him.”

Beyond education, Mr. Alberti has led outreach initiatives that support food banks, seniors’ homes, and inner-city families—encouraging the next generation to serve with compassion and purpose.

The 2025 Italian Canadian of the Year Award will be formally presented at the 121st Annual Christopher Columbus Banquet & Dance, presented by the Confratellanza Italo-Canadese Society, held at the Italian Cultural Centre Ballroom in Vancouver on October 4, 2025. The event honours outstanding achievement in the Italian Canadian community and celebrates the enduring spirit of Italian heritage.

Founded in 1904, the Confratellanza Italo Canadese Society is one of British Columbia’s oldest Italian cultural organizations. Its mission is to promote Italian heritage, support educational and charitable initiatives, and celebrate Italian Canadian excellence across generations.

Media Contact:
Justin DeGenova
Chair, Italian Canadian of the Year Award
jdegenova@live.ca