OSDIA National Office
Our National Headquarters plays a key role in shaping the future of OSDIA by developing impactful programs and fostering important partnerships. OSDIA’s National Headquarters coordinates efforts that help unite members and promote Italian culture on a national scale.
Programs and Events
The OSDIA National Office develops meaningful initiatives that celebrate Italian heritage and create opportunities for education and community growth. From scholarship awards to cultural events and medical research support, these programs strengthen our community and preserve our shared traditions for future generations.
- Developing educational programs, including scholarships and the promotion of the Italian language
- Hosting large-scale fundraising events, including the annual National Education and Leadership Awards Gala
- Presenting monthly webinars about cultural topics pertinent to the Italian American community
- Supporting of cultural and medical research programs
Communications
The communications department connects OSDIA with its members and the wider public through clear, impactful messaging. Managing our website and Italian America® magazine, they craft stories and campaigns that highlight our culture, achievements, and ongoing work.
- Maintaining and updating OSDIA.org
- Producing and publishing Italian America® magazine
- Producing OSDIA’s monthly newsletter, Questo Mese
- Producing content for OSDIA’s social media platforms, with a combined following of 150,000+
- Maintaining contact with other organizations, advocacy groups and the general public
- Developing advertising, videos, publicity and collateral materials for OSDIA
- Working with the news media (U.S. mainstream, Italian and Italian American sources)
Membership Services & Lodge Support
Supporting our members and lodges is essential to sustaining our community. The OSDIA National Office offers resources and guidance to help lodges thrive, assists in forming new chapters, and partners with businesses to provide valuable benefits that enrich the member experience.
- Managing National At-Large Member program
- Identifying member benefits
- Building partnerships with vendors that offer products and services of interest to Italian Americans
- Providing initial support in creation of new lodges and ongoing organizational support for all lodges
Public Affairs
At the core of our work in public affairs is a commitment to representing Italian American interests at the highest levels of government and society. We build strong relationships with policymakers, advocate for important causes, and collaborate with diverse communities to ensure our voice is heard and our culture is respected.
- Meeting with White House officials, members of Congress and senior federal government officials on issues of concern to Italian Americans
- Maintaining strong relationships with the Italian Embassy and Consulates throughout the United States
- Developing relationships with other ethnic and minority groups
- Working with the Italian government and corporate leaders to strengthen cultural and business relations between the United States and Italy
- Public advocacy of worthwhile causes and legislation
- National and international disaster relief efforts
Meet the OSDIA National Office Staff
The OSDIA National Headquarters, located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C., serves as the central hub for the organization’s national operations, advocacy efforts, and cultural programming. Staffed by professionals in public affairs, program management, public relations, and membership services, the office works to preserve Italian culture in the United States while identifying and advancing solutions to the issues and challenges facing Italian Americans today.

Shayla Kaestle, CPA
National Executive Director

Justin Smith
Managing Director

Nicole D’Arcangelo
Programs Director

Samuel Weinmann
Communications Coordinator and Editor-in-Chief, Italian America Magazine

Theresa Philips-Hess
Program Assistant
Alicia Robbins
Administrative Assistant
Mia Galasso
Administrative Assistant