About Us

The George L. Graziadio Center for Italian Studies at California State University, Long Beach is committed to offering outstanding programs in Italian language, literature and culture to prepare students for careers in the global arena where strong skills in Italian Studies are an asset for professional success. Founded through an Italian-American Community and University partnership, the George L. Graziadio Center for Italian Studies is equally committed to serving the cultural goals of these communities through events that present and interpret Italian and Italian-American culture.

George L. and Reva Graziadio spent the 59 years of their life together building one of the most dynamic names and reputations in philanthropy today. The Graziadio name is recognized far and wide for the generosity and warmth of spirit of the two people who tirelessly worked together to promote the causes in which they believed and to celebrate the achievements of those they empowered through their gifts.

George and Reva Graziadio brought the Italian Chair Campaign at CSULB to fruition in 1997 with a generous naming gift and founded The George L. Graziadio Center for Italian Studies in 1998. Their contribution, together with the community monies and matching funds from the University, made the CSULB Italian Chair Campaign a model of community-university collaboration benefiting students through the establishment of degree and credential programs. In Fall 2014, the Master of Arts in Italian Studies made its debut at CSULB, representing the latest installment in a growing Italian Studies program that already offers the Minor, Major and Single Subject Credential in Italian.

The George L. Graziadio Center for Italian Studies is a tangible expression of George and Reva Graziadio’s uniquely philanthropic educational vision and their commitment to Italian Studies.