The Buzz: The life, passions, and accomplishments of San Diego’s Ann Navarra will take center stage at a dinner recognizing her as the 2018 recipient of the Convivio Communitas Award for Leadership.  The annual award honors San Diego’s Italian-American community leaders who have transformed our region through their academic, business and civic achievements.

A second-generation Italian-American, Navarra cherishes memories of her Sicilian heritage as a child growing up in San Diego’s Little Italy. After graduating from Our Lady of Peace, Navarra earned a bachelor’s degree and a lifetime teaching credential from San Diego State University. Her passion for education inspired her to accept a teaching position at Marshall Elementary. The next chapter in her career found Navarra immersed in the family business — Jerome’s Furniture — a journey that culminated in her appointment as vice president of finance.