April 01, 2017

Susquehanna University is now home to the first university-based chapter of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America.

Giosue Bochicchio and Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto
Giosue Bochicchio ’18, president of Susquehanna’s newly formed Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSIA), presents a plaque to Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto, who was named the chapter’s first honoree in March.

The organization is headed by junior Giosue Bochicchio, a finance major from Wexford, Pa.

“By creating an organization like this on campus, we are opening an entirely new network of professionals to the university that will not only benefit the school but the student body,” Bochicchio said.

The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSIA) is the largest and oldest national organization for men and women of Italian heritage in the United States. Founded in 1905, its mission includes encouraging the study of Italian language and culture in American schools and universities; preserving Italian American traditions, culture, history and heritage; and promoting closer cultural relations between the United States and Italy.

Susquehanna University Lodge No. 2993 has 40 active members. The group’s advisor is Steve Briggs, advancement officer and former head football coach at Susquehanna.

During the spring semester, the lodge will undertake two service efforts-a canned food drive to benefit the homeless in Snyder County and a fundraiser to benefit St. Pius X Catholic Church.