Dedicated Couple Honored with  Serviam Award  

SPRINGFIELD, MA -- Ralph and Anne-Marie Ferraro, who have served the community for more than 30 years, were recipients of this year's Italian Cultural Center's prestigious Serviam Award. The award presented by the Italian Cultural Center is given each year to people exemplifying the highest standards of Italian culture and spirit and who have provided at least 25 years of community service. The award was presented to Ralph and Anne-Marie on October 10, 2003 at the 36th Annual Celebrazione di Columbo Banquet.

"We are lucky to have them," praised Rinaldo Santamaria, co-chairman of the Serviam Committee at the local Italian Cultural Center.  "This is the first time a couple, husband and wife, have been selected.  Ralph and Anne-Marie are exemplary individuals who have served the community well for many years. They are highly respected individual who have helped many people with their dedication and kindness over the years."

A city native, Anne-Marie Ferraro is a licensed practical  nurse, graduating from Youville Hospital School of Nursing in 1964. She has worked for many years in Community Health Nursing. Anne-Marie is also a board-certified chaplain having attended the Clinical Education Program which was held at Mercy Hospital. She became certified by the National Association of  Catholic Chaplains in 1987 and has worked as an Interfaith Chaplain for Hospice of Western New England for 13 years. Presently, she is employed by Holy Name Parish in Springfield as the Pastoral Minister. 

In the 1930's, Ralph Ferraro came to America with his parents from Italy (Martone, Reggio Calabria) and settled in Springfield, Massachusetts, where he attended elementary and high school. In 1961, he graduated from American International College with a major in English Literature. At Springfield College, he received a Master’s in education and did graduate work in the fields of psychology and counseling.  Mr. Ferraro has written Child of Wonder, a religious Italian novel, and The Quest, a text on spiritual healing. He is a founding member of the former Western Massachusetts Writers’ Guild.  Presently, he is an instructor at American International College in their Supportive Learning Services Program. 

As founder and director of the Italian American Press, Ferraro has accomplished what many immigrants aspire to achieve. Maintaining pride in his heritage and culture, he has offered valued services to both those of  his ethnic background as well as those of non-Italian backgrounds through the various offerings of The Italian American Press.  As Pastoral Minister, Anne-Marie enjoys her busy schedule  finding her many tasks in an outreach ministry both challenging and fulfilling. Her dedication and innovative approach to her ministry continue to earn her the admiration and praise of her parishioners.