Spanish Open House on November 5, 5:30-7:30pm.

Founded in 2004 by Maria Luisa De Luca (native of Rome) and Paola D'Amato (native of Trieste), the Institute for Italian Studies has offered language courses, cooking classes, workshops (art, opera, film), trips, immersion programs and translation services for those interested in Italian language and culture. These course offerings have also been picked up by several Maine public and private schools and adult education programs.

Following the successful model of the Institute for Italian Studies, the Spanish chapter was founded with the purpose of bringing together people passionate about Hispanic language and culture. Our instructors, natives of Spain and South America, will be teaching not only their language, but also their traditions and heritage. Programs include language, cooking, travel and plenty of fun cultural events.

Because of a growing interest and demand in other foreign and romance languages, the Institute for International Studies has expanded to offer Spanish studies and plans to introduce Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, German and French language studies in 2010.

With the experience of assimilating into a new country behind them, Luisa and Paola understand first-hand the importance of learning English and of acclimating to American ways. For this reason, in collaboration with another great Maine educator, Ann Marie Barter, they are developing a new aspect of the Institute: English as Another Language. These classes will be geared towards assisting professionals, new Americans and international students eager to gain or improve their English communication skills and to better navigate workplace, social and academic settings.

For businesses that interact with foreign entities, customers or employees, the Institute for International Studies is also embarking on a series of courses which will be tailored to individual business needs. This fills an important niche for firms that strive to be competitive in the International market. Clear communication in native languages increases customer service, trust and potentially sales and relationships with businesses abroad.