Laura Soave was honored last Friday with the “La Bellissima America” (America the Beautiful) award. The prestigious award is presented by the Italian American Museum and is given to Italian-Americans who are leaders in their field and have contributed positively to American culture and society.
On behalf of Fiat enthusiasts that visit my site from all over the country, I'd like to congratulate Laura Soave on this well deserved award.
Below is the official Chrysler press release:
New York , May 6, 2011 - The Italian American Museum in New York City has honored Laura Soave, Head of FIAT Brand North America, with its “La Bellissima America” (America the Beautiful) award. Each year, the award is presented to outstanding individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen field and in doing so have given great pride to the Italian-American community.
The award was presented as part of the Museum’s “Unification Dinner,” celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Italian Republic. The event was held at the Jolly Hotel Madison Towers in New York City.
“The honorees exemplify the finest qualities of the Italian-American experience,” said Dr. Joseph Scelsa, president of the Italian American Museum. “What they share in common is their commitment to their community and to dedication and drive in their respective professions.”
As Head of FIAT Brand North America, Soave has led the reintroduction of the FIAT Brand in North America, beginning with the Fiat 500 and now the Fiat 500 Cabrio, which was premiered to rave reviews at the New York International Auto Show on April 21.
“Reintroducing a classic Italian brand to the American market is a dream assignment,” said Soave. “In bringing this car to North America, we want to ensure that people understand not only the technological aspects that make the Fiat 500 a great car, but also the passion that has inspired love for the Cinquecento over two generations.”
Before joining Chrysler Group, Soave was the head of experiential marketing at Volkswagen of America. Prior to that, she held positions of increasing importance at Ford Motor Company. Soave holds a Master of Business Administration degree in marketing from the University of Detroit and a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Walsh College in Michigan.
About FIAT Brand
The FIAT Brand stands for discovery through passionate self-expression, starting with the North American introduction of the iconic Fiat 500, or Cinquecento, to be followed in the spring by the Fiat 500 Cabrio.
Reminiscent of the original Cinquecento, the new Fiat 500 is a car that builds on the vehicle’s global popularity. Since its initial launch in 2007, more than 500,000 Fiat 500 vehicles have been sold in more than 80 countries around the world. In addition to success on the sales front, the Fiat 500 has earned 60 international awards, including the 2008 European Car of the Year, 2009 World Car Design of the Year and Best New Engine of 2010 (FIAT MultiAir® Turbo), to name a few.
About the Italian American Museum
The Italian American Museum is located at 155 Mulberry St., at the corner of Grand St. in the heart of New York’s Little Italy. The Museum’s hours are Wednesdays through Sundays, 11 AM to 6 PM; Friday to 8 PM. For more information, call 212-965-9000 or visit the Italian American Museum website here.
Founded in 2001, the Italian American Museum is dedicated to exploring the rich cultural heritage of Italy and Italian-Americans by presenting the individual and collective struggles and achievements of Italians and their heirs to the American way of life. The Museum received its provisional charter from the New York State Board of Regents on June 12, 2001, and is a 501 (c) 3 organization.
Chrysler Media
