The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) congratulates Anita Bevacqua McBride, board member and Vice Chair National, as the 2022 Lewis L. Gould Award Recipient. 

McBride accepted the award on August 22nd for her distinguished contributions to the field of First Lady research and education, and her commitment to excellence while furthering the study of American First Ladies. The annual award is presented by the First Ladies Association for Research and Education (FLARE).

She served in three presidential administrations including her role as the former Chief of Staff for First Lady Laura Bush. Today, McBride serves as the Executive in Residence and Director of the First Ladies Initiative at American University's School of Public Affairs. In addition to her work promoting the legacies of America's First Ladies, she serves on the board of the White House Historical Association. McBride is a frequent news contributor as a leading expert on White House History and First Ladies.

"On behalf of NIAF and the entire Italian American community we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Anita Bevacqua McBride on receiving the 2022 Lewis L. Gould Award," said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. "NIAF would also like to take this time to thank McBride for her ongoing support to promote, protect, and preserve the Italian heritage in America."

Both of McBride's parents immigrated to America when they were teenagers. Since 2011, McBride has served on the NIAF Board and previously served as the Chair of the Education and Scholarship Committee. Currently, McBride is a Co-Chair of the Government Affairs Committee.