Welcome to the Italian Association of Arizona

Celebrating Italian heritage in the heart of the desert.

The Italian Association of Arizona is a vibrant 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, steered by a dedicated Board of Directors and Advisory Council, with a mission to celebrate and promote Italian culture, arts, and traditions within our local community. Our foundation is built on the dream of creating a cultural epicenter, reminiscent of a Little Italy in Arizona, where the essence of Italy is alive and thriving.

Meet the ‘24/’25 Board of Directors

  • Mickey Rao

    FOUNDER

  • Dario Soldan

    FOUNDER

    I arrived in the USA from Treviso, Italy, in 1987. Along with my wife, I own Classico Distributor LLC, an importing and distribution company specializing in Italian wines. As one of the founders of the Italian Association, I have proudly served as Vice President for the past two years.

    Deeply engaged with the Italian community on many levels, I am passionate about sharing my heritage and culture in Arizona, a place I proudly call my second home.

  • Caren Peyton

    SECRETARY

    Caren Peyton is a licensed Arizona Realtor® at Peyton Properties AZ with Coldwell Banker in the Biltmore/Paradise Valley office, specializing in residential, investment, and luxury properties.

    With over 30 years of international business experience, she was the Owner/Broker of CA.SA. International in Milan, assisting major clients like Coca-Cola, Gucci, and Donna Karan with commercial and residential real estate. She also founded Non Solo Crudo, a renowned restaurant in Piedmont’s wine country.

    For Americans relocating to Europe, Caren and her team simplify the home-buying process. A dual citizen and fluent in Italian, she serves as Secretary and Board Member of the Italian Association. Outside work, she enjoys tennis, golf, cooking, and hosting Italian cooking classes.

  • Ron Pacioni

    Ron, a lifelong Phoenix resident, has played a key role in numerous metro-area developments alongside his father, including the award-winning Stadium Lofts.

    In 2007, he pursued his passion for the culinary arts by purchasing Coup Des Tartes, a beloved French restaurant, before returning to real estate with The Kay-Grant Group. Specializing in luxury properties across Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Paradise Valley, he provides expert, discreet service to buyers and sellers.

    Ron is a board member of the Italian Association of Arizona and the Franciscan Renewal Center and co-founded The Kay-Grant Group’s Probate Division. He holds a B.S. in Economics from NAU and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, wine, golf, and reading.

  • Sean Gillespie

  • Ignazio Piras

  • Peter Stazzone

Our goal is to not only preserve and promote the rich tapestry of Italian culture but also to foster an environment that supports local businesses and increases awareness of Italian traditions, cuisine, arts, and industries. We envision an Arizona where Italian culture is a central part of the community's fabric, accessible to all who wish to explore and celebrate it.

Inspired by the dream of our founding members, we are on a journey to establish a cultural center that stands as the heart of what will become Arizona's own Little Italy. A place where the traditions, culture, and image of Italy are not only preserved but flourish, allowing the community at large to experience the true essence of Italy.

Join us as we continue to build this vibrant community, celebrate Italian culture, and foster connections that cross cultural boundaries. Together, we can make Arizona a home away from home for Italian culture enthusiasts and create a legacy that future generations will cherish.

OUR MISSION AND VISION

At the Italian Association, we offer a wide array of events and programs designed to bring a slice of Italy to Arizona. From authentic Italian language classes and culinary workshops to vibrant cultural festivals and art exhibitions, we provide numerous opportunities for our members and the wider community to engage with Italian culture. Our initiatives also aim to support local businesses and promote the Italian way of life, making Arizona a hub for Italian culture and community.

WHAT WE DO

Whether you are of Italian heritage, an admirer of Italian culture, or someone looking to explore new cultural experiences, the Italian Association of Arizona welcomes you. We believe in the power of community and the joy of sharing culture. Our events and programs are designed to educate, entertain, and inspire, bringing people together in celebration of Italy's indelible mark on the world.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY