The Columbian Foundation is filled with pride and gratitude as we share a heartfelt message we recently received from Pax Ardanz, a bright young student whom we were honored to sponsor for the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Voyage of Discovery. This incredible, all-expenses-paid journey offered Pax and fellow participants the opportunity to explore breathtaking UNESCO sites, experience local Italian hotspots, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Italy.
In his beautifully written card, Pax expressed his deep appreciation for the experiences, lessons, and friendships he gained during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. His words remind us of the importance of fostering opportunities that allow young Italian Americans to connect with their roots and grow through cultural exploration.
We are truly thankful to Pax for sharing his journey with us, including a cherished photo from his trip, which you can view below. His gratitude reflects the very mission of The Columbian Foundation—supporting and sponsoring young Italian Americans on transformative experiences that help them strengthen their bonds with our shared heritage.
It brings us immense joy to be able to support programs like the NIAF Voyage of Discovery and invest in the future of our community. We are honored to play a role in empowering young Italian Americans like Pax to explore, learn, and bring back invaluable memories from their ancestral homeland.
Thank you once again, Pax, for your kind words. We look forward to continuing to support future generations in their cultural journeys.
Warm regards,
The Columbian Foundation