Antonina Bellesorte
Director, Language & Culinary
A
native of Italy, Antonina has taught the Italian language for many years, working with schools and private students alike.
Fluent in both Italian and English, she also works as an interpreter for the Italian Consulate, the US court system,
private companies such as AT&T, and government agencies such as the FBI and the Immigration Department.
In addition to her passion
for language, Antonina is also a prize-winning cook whose delightful specialty meals have graced the tables of many South
Jersey families. She has given classes at Eastern High School in Voorhees and also in Berlin’s adult
education program. In May 2004, Antonina was invited by Williams-Sonoma in Marlton to give cooking classes
and demonstrations.
In addition to her teaching, interpreting, and culinary activities, Antonina was president of the South Jersey Chapter
of Filitalia (meaning “Extension of Italy”), a national organization whose aim is to promote Italian culture and
traditions as well as award scholarships to members of the organization. She also serves as Cultural Chair
on Filitalia’s national board.
In an earlier career, Antonina worked in social services as a mental health counselor. Her
community work included teaching English as a second language, and she has been a VISTA volunteer and a member of Amnesty
International. She is also a member of the National Italian-American Federation. Antonina attended the University
of Pennsylvania and Temple University, where she received her degree in social work. |
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 Annalisa Salomone
Italian & Arts
Teacher
Annalisa Salomone was born in Bologna in 1975.
She is the daughter of an Italian artist, Angela Quintavalle. Angela graduated from the Academy
of Arts in Naples in 1973. She spent most of her life as an Art and Image teacher in different high schools in Italy. Now
that she is retired she finally has the chance to spend most of her days painting.
Since when Annalisa was a
child, she always loved to paint and draw with her mom. Having the chance to grow her passion for the art and for painting
“in house”, Annalisa decided to widen her knowledge and in 2002 she took a degree in Business Management at the
University of Bologna. While in Italy she also worked for Nike as a Business Analyst for 5 years. Two years ago she moved
to the US with her husband because of his job; that is when Annalisa started doing full time what she always loved to do when
in Italy, but only during her free time: painting.
Annalisa’s artworks are based largely on representational art
with a contemporary feel. She is mostly inspired by two different elements: Nature and Emotions. Nature is
one of the inspirational keys of her paintings. Oceans, flowers, breathtaking landscapes, always have a strong influence and
impact for Annalisa. But Nature is not the only reason for Annalisa’s works.Emotions are what lead each and every one of us, and it is thanks to emotions
that we live our lives and describe who we are.
Annalisa already attended several editions of the First Friday in
Haddonfield, NJ (local art show who takes place every first Friday of the month during the spring and summer time), and is
currently taking part in several art exhibitions and competitions.
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