After years of declining numbers of American Studies professors, researchers and course offerings at Italian universities, the numbers are on the rise, thanks to a partnership between the U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in Italy, the Center for American Studies (CSA) and the Italian Association for North American Studies (AISNA).

The American Studies Initiative has helped create adjunct professorships in American literature and history at ten Italian universities.  Combined with existing programs, more than 35 Italian universities now have or are developing American Studies courses.