Friends of Isola Partners with Monterey Pacific College to Launch Sicilian Language & Culture Program

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Friends of Isola Partners with Monterey Pacific College to

Launch Sicilian Language & Culture Program

Monterey, California — November 20, 2025 — The Friends of Isola nonprofit organization, in

collaboration with Monterey Pacific College, is proud to announce the development of a new

Sicilian Language and Culture Programthat will give Monterey residents an opportunity to

reconnect with their Sicilian heritage, identity, and longstanding cultural traditions.

The initiative is led by Dr. Vincent Michael Malfitano, President of the Friends of Isola —

Monterey Chapter, a First-Generation Sicilian American and respected cultural advocate. Dr.

Malfitano also serves as First Vice President of ICF Branch 36, a Grand Trustee on the

National ICF Central Council, and is the host of the widely appreciated spiritual podcast ICF

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Voices: Faith, Family, Heritage & Tradition, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

"The Sicilian traditions I grew up with shaped the man I am today," said Dr. Malfitano. "Our

community is eager to reconnect with its roots — our language, our customs, our faith, our food,

our music, and the unique spirit of our ancestors. This program is a meaningful step toward

preserving that identity and ensuring it is taught, shared, and celebrated for generations to come."

The launch of this program carries the support of Monterey Mayor Tyller Williamson, who

praised the cultural and community value of the initiative.

"Dr. Malfitano has been a vital civic leader in our community, and we appreciate his

enthusiasm and sincerity,"Mayor Williamson stated.

His support underscores the city's commitment to cultural preservation and educational growth.

The program, now being developed with Monterey Pacific College's academic leadership, will

include:

• Introductory Sicilian language instruction

• Sicilian and Italian American cultural history
• Traditional cuisine, arts, and storytelling
• Guest speakers, cultural demonstrations, and community events

For over a century, Monterey has been one of the most culturally significant Sicilian

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communities on the West Coast. The new program represents a revival of language and heritage

that honors this history while fostering deeper community understanding and pride."This is more than a class," added Dr. Malfitano. "It is a bridge between the old world and the

new — a celebration of faith, family, heritage, and tradition."

Enrollment announcements and public event details are expected in early 2026.

About Friends of Isola

Friends of Isola is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening cultural, educational, and

heritage-based ties between Isola delle Femmine, Sicily, and communities across the United

States. The Monterey Chapter focuses on preserving Sicilian identity through cultural programs,

community events, and international collaboration.

Media Contact

Friends of Isola – Monterey Chapter

Attn: Dr. Vincent Michael Malfitano

Email: skylinecrest@msn.com