Patrizia Cambria's Biography

Patrizia “Pat” Cambria is a dedicated Bronx native and first-generation American, whose parents suffered the ravages of the Second World War in Italy before coming to the United States in the 1950s. 

Born and raised in the Bronx, Pat made history as the first in her family to earn a college degree, ultimately achieving her Masters of Science from Fordham University, taking additional coursework in early childhood education at the colleges of Iona, Manhattan, Manhattanville, Mercy and Columbia University, an impressive feat, considering Pat’s difficulty with English as a child. (At age five, she had to withdraw from P.S. 83 to attend Catholic school because her first spoken language is Italian.)

With a career spanning over thirty years, Pat still serves as an educator in New York City Public School District 11. Her impactful work has included teaching young students to become independent learners, mentoring student teachers, leading curriculum development, and collaborating on reading and writing projects with Columbia University. She has also engaged with parents on school-related initiatives, demonstrating her commitment to educational excellence.

Married since the late 1980s and a proud mother of three, Pat remains deeply rooted in her community. Following her retirement from full-time work in 2019, she increased her involvement in local activities, attending CB11 and Morris Park Community Association meetings while serving on the board of the Bronx Columbus Day Parade Committee and Forum of Italian American Educators, continuing to support and uplift Italian American educators.

Pat is honored to have been appointed to CB11 in 2024 by Borough President Gibson as a Council Member Marmorato nominee. She is excited to contribute further to her community via her new role.