May 27, 2004

Russell B. Collins, Executive Director/C.E.O. of the Michigan Theater Foundation, will be honored as a “Knight of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Italy” (Cavaliere nell’Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana) in recognition of his efforts in promoting Italian film and culture.

The award was conferred by the President of Italy late last year and will be presented formally on Wednesday, June 2 at 6:00 pm at a reception hosted by Dr. Nicola De Santis, the Consul of Italy in Detroit. The award will consist of a medal, a ribbon and a diploma commemorating the honor. In his role as Executive Director, Collins worked with the Consulate of Italy to present a number of festivals at the Michigan Theater showcasing the work of Italian filmmakers.

The reception, held at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial’s Alger House, will honor Order of Merit recipients and the celebration of Italian National Day (held annually on June 2). The Grosse Pointe War Memorial is located at 32 Lake Shore Drive in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan.

A celebration of the award will also be held in Ann Arbor this coming August for the friends and supporters of the Michigan Theater.