In November 2014, the Italian Program was delighted to welcome Dr. Anthony Julian Tamburri as part of the DLLC’s Distinguished Speakers Series. Dr. Tamburri is Distinguished Professor of European Languages and Literatures and Dean of the John D. Calandra Italian American Institute at Queens College, CUNY, and the author of numerous books and articles on Italian American literature and history. His presentation on the classic film Big Night (1996) – the story of two brothers who dream of opening an authentic restaurant – focused on the struggle for identity by Italian immigrants to the United States in the post-war era. Dr. Tamburri’s comments resonated with the audience, giving rise to a lively discussion of Italian American history, culture, and experience. This event was co-sponsored by the Department of English, and the Center for Global and Area Studies.