Alpha Phi Delta Century Society
The Century Society recognizes Alpha Phi Delta brothers who have applied our Fraternity’s values of friendship, scholarship, leadership and service to their successful careers, resulting in an enhanced quality of life for this generation, and generations to come.
Louis Agnes, 1917-2014 (Chi ’36)
Successful business owner and community activist
Lou grew up in South Philadelphia and graduated from South Philadelphia High School. He started working for his father’s small construction company at a young age and, with his family’s sacrifices, was able to attend Penn State University earning a degree in architectural engineering in 1939. Lou's career was interrupted by World War II. He entered the Navy in 1942. He served as port director in Curacao and also served in Pearl Harbor, Okinawa and Tokyo. After his discharge in 1946, he rejoined the family business and set about expanding the company to what it is today: one of the region’s most prominent and busiest construction companies. He led the company for 30 years and continued to report to work into his 90’s. His vision and organizational qualities helped turn P. Agnes Builders from a company largely devoted to residential work into the construction company that built a patient tower at Lankenau Hospital and renovated the University of Pennsylvania’s famed Palestra and Hutchinson Gymnasium. He was very active in his community, serving on the board of the Boy Scouts of America and the Philadelphia chapter of UNICO National, an Italian-American service organization. He was on the boards of the Methodist Hospital Foundation and Prudential Savings & Loan. He was a founding member of the National Society of Architectural Engineers and the Penn State Alumni Association. In 1999, he received the Penn State College of Engineering Outstanding Engineering Alumni Award.
Successful business owner and community activist
Lou grew up in South Philadelphia and graduated from South Philadelphia High School. He started working for his father’s small construction company at a young age and, with his family’s sacrifices, was able to attend Penn State University earning a degree in architectural engineering in 1939. Lou's career was interrupted by World War II. He entered the Navy in 1942. He served as port director in Curacao and also served in Pearl Harbor, Okinawa and Tokyo. After his discharge in 1946, he rejoined the family business and set about expanding the company to what it is today: one of the region’s most prominent and busiest construction companies. He led the company for 30 years and continued to report to work into his 90’s. His vision and organizational qualities helped turn P. Agnes Builders from a company largely devoted to residential work into the construction company that built a patient tower at Lankenau Hospital and renovated the University of Pennsylvania’s famed Palestra and Hutchinson Gymnasium. He was very active in his community, serving on the board of the Boy Scouts of America and the Philadelphia chapter of UNICO National, an Italian-American service organization. He was on the boards of the Methodist Hospital Foundation and Prudential Savings & Loan. He was a founding member of the National Society of Architectural Engineers and the Penn State Alumni Association. In 1999, he received the Penn State College of Engineering Outstanding Engineering Alumni Award.
Anthony Cafaro, Sr., (Beta Omicron ’65)
Prominent real estate developer, executive and philanthropist
Anthony Cafaro, Sr. was born in Youngstown, Ohio in 1946. Cafaro's father, William, had founded a real estate development company with an eye toward building shopping centers. But Tony was no “trust fund kid.” At the age of 13, his father put him to work as a maintenance worker, then a construction laborer and a surveyor’s assistant. He also gained experience working as an engineering draftsman and purchasing agent. Tony enrolled in Youngstown State University, intent on learning the skills to help the family business. He pledged Alpha Phi Delta’s Beta Omicron Chapter in the Spring of 1965. He graduated in 1968, which turned out to be a very big year in many ways. In July of that year, he married his sweetheart, Phyllis Lucarell. They moved to the Washington, D.C. area, where he was set to begin studying at the Georgetown University Law School. Within months, his career in the law was sidetracked when Uncle Sam called his number in the military draft. Tony was permitted to join the Army Reserves in order to continue his education. He served with the 348th Engineer Company from 1968 through 1974. In 1969 he began working in the Cafaro Company’s corporate office as a leasing agent in the Real Estate Department. In 1982, Tony was appointed president and chief executive officer. During this period he led the company to develop a portfolio of more than 50 enclosed malls and open-air shopping centers comprising more than 30 million square feet of retail space. Cafaro is now ranked among the top 15 mall developers, and the largest privately-held mall company in the nation. In addition to his business responsibilities, Tony Cafaro has always been an active philanthropist and participant in public life, serving on numerous public and private boards. He and his family have donated millions of dollars to schools, hospitals, community organizations and individuals in need. In 1995, Wheeling Jesuit University honored him with an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities Degree. In 1999, he was named Trumbull County Sportsman of the Year for his work in building Cafaro Field (later renamed Eastwood Field), a minor league baseball stadium in Niles, Ohio, and home to the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, the Single-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. In 2013, Real Estate Forum magazine honored Tony as part of an elite group of real estate industry executives, giving each of them the title of “Reap Estate Icon.” Although he officially retired in 2009, he remains active as a “consultant” in the company that bears his name.
Prominent real estate developer, executive and philanthropist
Anthony Cafaro, Sr. was born in Youngstown, Ohio in 1946. Cafaro's father, William, had founded a real estate development company with an eye toward building shopping centers. But Tony was no “trust fund kid.” At the age of 13, his father put him to work as a maintenance worker, then a construction laborer and a surveyor’s assistant. He also gained experience working as an engineering draftsman and purchasing agent. Tony enrolled in Youngstown State University, intent on learning the skills to help the family business. He pledged Alpha Phi Delta’s Beta Omicron Chapter in the Spring of 1965. He graduated in 1968, which turned out to be a very big year in many ways. In July of that year, he married his sweetheart, Phyllis Lucarell. They moved to the Washington, D.C. area, where he was set to begin studying at the Georgetown University Law School. Within months, his career in the law was sidetracked when Uncle Sam called his number in the military draft. Tony was permitted to join the Army Reserves in order to continue his education. He served with the 348th Engineer Company from 1968 through 1974. In 1969 he began working in the Cafaro Company’s corporate office as a leasing agent in the Real Estate Department. In 1982, Tony was appointed president and chief executive officer. During this period he led the company to develop a portfolio of more than 50 enclosed malls and open-air shopping centers comprising more than 30 million square feet of retail space. Cafaro is now ranked among the top 15 mall developers, and the largest privately-held mall company in the nation. In addition to his business responsibilities, Tony Cafaro has always been an active philanthropist and participant in public life, serving on numerous public and private boards. He and his family have donated millions of dollars to schools, hospitals, community organizations and individuals in need. In 1995, Wheeling Jesuit University honored him with an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities Degree. In 1999, he was named Trumbull County Sportsman of the Year for his work in building Cafaro Field (later renamed Eastwood Field), a minor league baseball stadium in Niles, Ohio, and home to the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, the Single-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. In 2013, Real Estate Forum magazine honored Tony as part of an elite group of real estate industry executives, giving each of them the title of “Reap Estate Icon.” Although he officially retired in 2009, he remains active as a “consultant” in the company that bears his name.
Alphonse William Capone, 1919 – 2003 (Psi ’40)
Industrialist, university board chair, finance executive
The son of an Italian immigrant, Capone is a prime example of how our earlier brothers succeeded in becoming not only world business leaders but also excelled in representing their university and community. Mr. Capone graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Duquesne University in 1942 in the midst of World War II. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for the duration of the war on land and sea. He joined the Koppers Company in 1946. After only one year, he was appointed as Supervisor of Accounting. In 1953, moved his family overseas to Sao Paulo, Brazil; where he oversaw one of the company’s many international assets as Manager of Finance in Plasticos Koppers. Bill was named Vice President of Koppers International and Manager of Finance in International Operations in 1964. And in 1966, he was honored in Italy with the highest award possible for a non-Italian national, the order of Cavaliere al Merito della Republica Italiana, in recognition of the role that he and Koppers had played in the advancement of the community of Genoa and the Italian economy as a whole. In 1967, he was promoted to Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Koppers Company, Inc., which he retained until his retirement in 1984, by which time he had been awarded the additional title of Senior Vice President (1978). Capone served on various company boards, spoke and wrote extensively, and received many awards including the American Management Associations’ Distinguished Service Award in 1979. He served as the AMA’s Vice President in charge of the finance council from 1976-79. He received an honorary degree of doctor of laws From Duquesne University in 1972 and was selected as the recipient of the fifth annual Old Main Alumni Recognition Award in 1985. He served as President of the Alumni Association Board of Governors (1967-72) and later as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Duquesne University (1982-87).
Industrialist, university board chair, finance executive
The son of an Italian immigrant, Capone is a prime example of how our earlier brothers succeeded in becoming not only world business leaders but also excelled in representing their university and community. Mr. Capone graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Duquesne University in 1942 in the midst of World War II. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for the duration of the war on land and sea. He joined the Koppers Company in 1946. After only one year, he was appointed as Supervisor of Accounting. In 1953, moved his family overseas to Sao Paulo, Brazil; where he oversaw one of the company’s many international assets as Manager of Finance in Plasticos Koppers. Bill was named Vice President of Koppers International and Manager of Finance in International Operations in 1964. And in 1966, he was honored in Italy with the highest award possible for a non-Italian national, the order of Cavaliere al Merito della Republica Italiana, in recognition of the role that he and Koppers had played in the advancement of the community of Genoa and the Italian economy as a whole. In 1967, he was promoted to Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Koppers Company, Inc., which he retained until his retirement in 1984, by which time he had been awarded the additional title of Senior Vice President (1978). Capone served on various company boards, spoke and wrote extensively, and received many awards including the American Management Associations’ Distinguished Service Award in 1979. He served as the AMA’s Vice President in charge of the finance council from 1976-79. He received an honorary degree of doctor of laws From Duquesne University in 1972 and was selected as the recipient of the fifth annual Old Main Alumni Recognition Award in 1985. He served as President of the Alumni Association Board of Governors (1967-72) and later as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Duquesne University (1982-87).
Mario W. Cardullo, (Delta ’53)
Technology and engineering educator, innovator and inventor
Mario earned a BME ’57 and MME ’59 from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, a master's degree in engineering administration from George Washington University and a doctorate from George Mason University. He has been a professor, research associate and lecturer for 30 years. A registered professional engineer, he has authored well over 100 papers, books, and articles in the fields of technology management, technology entrepreneurship, energy, and systems engineering most notably the book, Technological Entrepreneurism: Enterprise Formation, Financing and Growth and a paper detailing the use of mobile communications with satellites for saving people at sea which is credited with rescuing numerous people. He served as a senior propulsion specialist for Belcom (Bell Labs) on the Apollo manned moon mission. Following that, he was the 100th employee of the Communications Satellite Corporation (COMSAT) where he conceived of the Maritime and Mobile Communications Satellite Program (IMARSAT) and the highly successful Rescue Satellite System. He then proceeded to solicit funding for and form Communications Services Corporation (ComServ) whose principal products were to be EKG terminals and the RFID (Radio-frequency identification) tag, the precursor to today’s EZ Pass. The initial patent application was filed in 1970 and the patent was issued in 1973 thus launching what has become a $10 billion industry. He was the counselor on technology and entrepreneurship to the Under Secretary of Commerce for the International Trade Administration and also served as a technology advisor or consultant to companies or governmental commissions in China, Japan, and Italy, as well as the American Red Cross, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the International Energy Agency. The founder or principal in a number of technology companies and holder of numerous patents, he was nominated for the Lemelson-MIT Prize (2003), the Presidential National Medal of Technology (2004) and the U.S. Patent Office Hall of Fame (2010). He was chosen as one of the 100 technology leaders in the Commonwealth of Virginia (1997-98), was awarded the Bronze Medal for Outstanding Service from the U.S. Department of Energy, received the Silver Medal of the Senate of France in 2004, honored by the International RFID Congress in London in 2006 and in 2010 was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for NYU-Polytechnic, where he has been a Trustee.
Technology and engineering educator, innovator and inventor
Mario earned a BME ’57 and MME ’59 from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, a master's degree in engineering administration from George Washington University and a doctorate from George Mason University. He has been a professor, research associate and lecturer for 30 years. A registered professional engineer, he has authored well over 100 papers, books, and articles in the fields of technology management, technology entrepreneurship, energy, and systems engineering most notably the book, Technological Entrepreneurism: Enterprise Formation, Financing and Growth and a paper detailing the use of mobile communications with satellites for saving people at sea which is credited with rescuing numerous people. He served as a senior propulsion specialist for Belcom (Bell Labs) on the Apollo manned moon mission. Following that, he was the 100th employee of the Communications Satellite Corporation (COMSAT) where he conceived of the Maritime and Mobile Communications Satellite Program (IMARSAT) and the highly successful Rescue Satellite System. He then proceeded to solicit funding for and form Communications Services Corporation (ComServ) whose principal products were to be EKG terminals and the RFID (Radio-frequency identification) tag, the precursor to today’s EZ Pass. The initial patent application was filed in 1970 and the patent was issued in 1973 thus launching what has become a $10 billion industry. He was the counselor on technology and entrepreneurship to the Under Secretary of Commerce for the International Trade Administration and also served as a technology advisor or consultant to companies or governmental commissions in China, Japan, and Italy, as well as the American Red Cross, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the International Energy Agency. The founder or principal in a number of technology companies and holder of numerous patents, he was nominated for the Lemelson-MIT Prize (2003), the Presidential National Medal of Technology (2004) and the U.S. Patent Office Hall of Fame (2010). He was chosen as one of the 100 technology leaders in the Commonwealth of Virginia (1997-98), was awarded the Bronze Medal for Outstanding Service from the U.S. Department of Energy, received the Silver Medal of the Senate of France in 2004, honored by the International RFID Congress in London in 2006 and in 2010 was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for NYU-Polytechnic, where he has been a Trustee.
Anthony J. Carfang, (Psi ’69)
Business leader, benefactor, entrepreneur and university vice-chair
Tony earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Duquesne in 1973. As a student, he displayed his leadership abilities in establishing a scholarship honoring the chapter’s advisor, the Rev. Salvatore Federici and by his activity with Third Alternative, a student-run effort in 1970 that raised several million dollars to save the university from a financial crisis. He went on to get his MBA from Northwestern University and settled in Chicago after graduation. Tony pursued a career in finance. He became a vice president at the First National Bank of Chicago, where he gained a reputation for exacting analysis and innovative solutions. He co-founded Treasury Strategies, Inc. and is currently a partner and director responsible for setting the strategic direction of the firm. The company works with corporations and non-profits to optimize treasury management strategies and assists financial institutions in developing liquidity products and positioning their services in the marketplace. He has testified several times before Congress on financial regulation issues, most recently in July, 2014, and has appeared on multiple media outlets including CNBC, Bloomberg and Fox. In 2011, he was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Finance by Treasury & Risk Magazine. He has served on Duquesne University’s board of directors since 2007 and is currently a Vice Chair. Tony gives generously of his time and talents to help organizations serving the disabled and to support his alma mater. He was the lead benefactor for Carfang Commons, the business school’s new team suites in Rockwell Hall. In 2008, he was inducted into the Order of Omega by the Office of Greek Life and in 2010 was inducted into the Duquesne Century Club of distinguished alumni. Tony was instrumental in establishing the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation and has been its greatest single benefactor. A specialist in Italian genealogy, he is the founder of The Abruzzo Project, a leading online resource for families tracing their roots. Tony and his wife, Carol, reside in Evanston, Ill. They are the parents of four adult children.
Business leader, benefactor, entrepreneur and university vice-chair
Tony earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Duquesne in 1973. As a student, he displayed his leadership abilities in establishing a scholarship honoring the chapter’s advisor, the Rev. Salvatore Federici and by his activity with Third Alternative, a student-run effort in 1970 that raised several million dollars to save the university from a financial crisis. He went on to get his MBA from Northwestern University and settled in Chicago after graduation. Tony pursued a career in finance. He became a vice president at the First National Bank of Chicago, where he gained a reputation for exacting analysis and innovative solutions. He co-founded Treasury Strategies, Inc. and is currently a partner and director responsible for setting the strategic direction of the firm. The company works with corporations and non-profits to optimize treasury management strategies and assists financial institutions in developing liquidity products and positioning their services in the marketplace. He has testified several times before Congress on financial regulation issues, most recently in July, 2014, and has appeared on multiple media outlets including CNBC, Bloomberg and Fox. In 2011, he was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Finance by Treasury & Risk Magazine. He has served on Duquesne University’s board of directors since 2007 and is currently a Vice Chair. Tony gives generously of his time and talents to help organizations serving the disabled and to support his alma mater. He was the lead benefactor for Carfang Commons, the business school’s new team suites in Rockwell Hall. In 2008, he was inducted into the Order of Omega by the Office of Greek Life and in 2010 was inducted into the Duquesne Century Club of distinguished alumni. Tony was instrumental in establishing the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation and has been its greatest single benefactor. A specialist in Italian genealogy, he is the founder of The Abruzzo Project, a leading online resource for families tracing their roots. Tony and his wife, Carol, reside in Evanston, Ill. They are the parents of four adult children.
Ernest C. Casale, 1919-1999 (Beta Delta ’40)
Nationally recognized leader in intercollegiate sports administration.
A native of Philadelphia and graduate of Germantown High School, Ernie enrolled in Temple in 1936 where he played three years on the baseball team. He spent his entire career at Temple in teaching, coaching and administration only interrupted by two stints with the Army in World War II and the Korean War. He became the Temple baseball coach in 1953. During seven seasons, the team compiled an 85-48-3 record including two appearances in the NCAA tournament. In 1959, he was named the university’s athletic director and over his 23 year tenure earned a reputation as a creative athletic director who transformed Temple into a nationally prominent athletic program while maintaining academic standards. Temple won the 1969 NIT championship and hosted the 1976 and 1981 Final Fours. He was an assistant professor for mathematics throughout his tenure as athletic director. In 1982, he was named an executive assistant to the President of Temple University. On the national level, he served a seven-year term on the NCAA Executive Council and a six-year term on the NCAA basketball tournament committee. He was a founder and commissioner of the East Coast Athletic Conference (ECAC). In 1976, he headed up the NCAA Playoffs Feasibility Study Committee which proposed a post-bowl game playoff-system. Though not adopted at the time, the proposal contained many of the elements that eventually came to be. He originally designed what has come to be known as the Casale’s Master Sports Schedule Book used by over 2,000 universities, high schools and other organizations throughout the United States and Canada. It is now in its 21st edition. He received the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame Certificate of Honor and was inducted into the Temple University Athletics Hall of Fame in 1974. In 1982, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Fame and in 2008 Temple named its athletic office “The Ernest C. Casale Intercollegiate Athletics Suite.”
Nationally recognized leader in intercollegiate sports administration.
A native of Philadelphia and graduate of Germantown High School, Ernie enrolled in Temple in 1936 where he played three years on the baseball team. He spent his entire career at Temple in teaching, coaching and administration only interrupted by two stints with the Army in World War II and the Korean War. He became the Temple baseball coach in 1953. During seven seasons, the team compiled an 85-48-3 record including two appearances in the NCAA tournament. In 1959, he was named the university’s athletic director and over his 23 year tenure earned a reputation as a creative athletic director who transformed Temple into a nationally prominent athletic program while maintaining academic standards. Temple won the 1969 NIT championship and hosted the 1976 and 1981 Final Fours. He was an assistant professor for mathematics throughout his tenure as athletic director. In 1982, he was named an executive assistant to the President of Temple University. On the national level, he served a seven-year term on the NCAA Executive Council and a six-year term on the NCAA basketball tournament committee. He was a founder and commissioner of the East Coast Athletic Conference (ECAC). In 1976, he headed up the NCAA Playoffs Feasibility Study Committee which proposed a post-bowl game playoff-system. Though not adopted at the time, the proposal contained many of the elements that eventually came to be. He originally designed what has come to be known as the Casale’s Master Sports Schedule Book used by over 2,000 universities, high schools and other organizations throughout the United States and Canada. It is now in its 21st edition. He received the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame Certificate of Honor and was inducted into the Temple University Athletics Hall of Fame in 1974. In 1982, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Fame and in 2008 Temple named its athletic office “The Ernest C. Casale Intercollegiate Athletics Suite.”
Hon. Nicholas A. Cipriani, 1919-2008 (Beta Delta ’37)
Judge, public servant, children’s advocate
A long serving judge in the Philadelphia Family Court, Cipriani cared passionately about children and dedicated his life to public service. He obtained his Juris Doctorate from Temple University Law School and, upon graduation, was drafted into the Army where he served his country as a Provost Marshal at a military hospital in Illinois. He was discharged at the rank of Second Lieutenant and then returned to Philadelphia where he began work as an attorney. He was elected to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas in 1969 and was assigned to the Family Court division, where he remained for 33 years. He served as Administrative Judge where he introduced new initiatives, including improving the process for the adoption of dependent children. He served as an instructor at the Juvenile Court Judges' Commission Master's Degree Program at Shippensburg University and was appointed by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges as Chairman of the Committee of Metropolitan Courts in the United States. Even in his retirement, he served as a part-time hearing master in the floating truancy court. He served on the Boards of the Methodist Hospital, Boy Scouts of America, Temple University Law School, Temple University Law Alumni, Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, Big Brothers and the Jenkins Law Library and was very active in the Sons of Italy. He was the recipient of many awards, including the Philadelphia Citizens for Children and Youth's Wilbur Hobbs "True Friend of Children" Award in 2005. In addition, the Nicholas A. Cipriani Family Law American Inn of Court, whose purpose is to promote professionalism, ethics, camaraderie and education among the bench and bar, was named in his honor. On April 17, 2008, the Philadelphia City Council voted unanimously to designate 1801 Vine Street as “The Judge Nicholas A. Cipriani Family Court Building.”
Judge, public servant, children’s advocate
A long serving judge in the Philadelphia Family Court, Cipriani cared passionately about children and dedicated his life to public service. He obtained his Juris Doctorate from Temple University Law School and, upon graduation, was drafted into the Army where he served his country as a Provost Marshal at a military hospital in Illinois. He was discharged at the rank of Second Lieutenant and then returned to Philadelphia where he began work as an attorney. He was elected to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas in 1969 and was assigned to the Family Court division, where he remained for 33 years. He served as Administrative Judge where he introduced new initiatives, including improving the process for the adoption of dependent children. He served as an instructor at the Juvenile Court Judges' Commission Master's Degree Program at Shippensburg University and was appointed by the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges as Chairman of the Committee of Metropolitan Courts in the United States. Even in his retirement, he served as a part-time hearing master in the floating truancy court. He served on the Boards of the Methodist Hospital, Boy Scouts of America, Temple University Law School, Temple University Law Alumni, Crime Prevention Association of Philadelphia, Big Brothers and the Jenkins Law Library and was very active in the Sons of Italy. He was the recipient of many awards, including the Philadelphia Citizens for Children and Youth's Wilbur Hobbs "True Friend of Children" Award in 2005. In addition, the Nicholas A. Cipriani Family Law American Inn of Court, whose purpose is to promote professionalism, ethics, camaraderie and education among the bench and bar, was named in his honor. On April 17, 2008, the Philadelphia City Council voted unanimously to designate 1801 Vine Street as “The Judge Nicholas A. Cipriani Family Court Building.”
Albert W. Cretella, 1897-1979 (Gamma ’19)
U.S. Congressman, lawyer
Born in New Haven, Cretella graduated from Yale University in 1917. He began Yale Law School but interrupted his studies, enlisted in the United States Navy and was in officers training school when the Armistice was signed. He re-entered Yale Law School and graduated in 1921. He was admitted to the Connecticut bar the same year and began practice in New Haven. He moved to North Haven and served as prosecuting attorney from 1931 to 1945 and, with the exception of two years, as town counsel from 1931 to 1970. He served as a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives from1947 to 1952. In 1952, he was elected as a Republican to the 83rd Congress and re-elected for two additional terms (January 3, 1953-January 3, 1959). After serving in Congress, he returned to the practice of law.
U.S. Congressman, lawyer
Born in New Haven, Cretella graduated from Yale University in 1917. He began Yale Law School but interrupted his studies, enlisted in the United States Navy and was in officers training school when the Armistice was signed. He re-entered Yale Law School and graduated in 1921. He was admitted to the Connecticut bar the same year and began practice in New Haven. He moved to North Haven and served as prosecuting attorney from 1931 to 1945 and, with the exception of two years, as town counsel from 1931 to 1970. He served as a member of the Connecticut House of Representatives from1947 to 1952. In 1952, he was elected as a Republican to the 83rd Congress and re-elected for two additional terms (January 3, 1953-January 3, 1959). After serving in Congress, he returned to the practice of law.
Joseph D. D’Annunzio, (Tau ’48)
CEO, infrastructure expert, philanthropist
Joe was one of four brothers who reactivated Tau Chapter at MIT in 1948 following its WWII hiatus. A young engineer, Joe graduated with his bachelor’s degree and joined the family construction business. Later, Joe formed his own D’Annunzio & Sons infrastructure business. Joe grew D’Annunzio & Sons into a construction powerhouse in the New York and New Jersey area. Construction of several runways and taxiways at Newark’s Liberty Airport is synonymous with the D’Annunzio name. The firm built the control tower at LaGuardia Airport. Many of the highways, bridges and interchanges in the tri state area bear the firm’s seal. The firm developed a mixing process that is now that standard in highway construction. Utility infrastructure, however, is where the firm earned its reputation. Joe engineered and constructed major utility, water and port authority projects from Virginia to Maine. Wintering in Naples, Fla., Joe and his wife Viola were prime movers behind the establishment of the Naples Italian American Foundation that supports numerous charitable organizations in the southwest Florida area. Joe founded and continues to organize the Italian American Open, a regional golf event supporting the Special Olympics. Joe served in the U.S. Army and is a Gold Sponsor of the Alpha Phi Delta Centennial.
CEO, infrastructure expert, philanthropist
Joe was one of four brothers who reactivated Tau Chapter at MIT in 1948 following its WWII hiatus. A young engineer, Joe graduated with his bachelor’s degree and joined the family construction business. Later, Joe formed his own D’Annunzio & Sons infrastructure business. Joe grew D’Annunzio & Sons into a construction powerhouse in the New York and New Jersey area. Construction of several runways and taxiways at Newark’s Liberty Airport is synonymous with the D’Annunzio name. The firm built the control tower at LaGuardia Airport. Many of the highways, bridges and interchanges in the tri state area bear the firm’s seal. The firm developed a mixing process that is now that standard in highway construction. Utility infrastructure, however, is where the firm earned its reputation. Joe engineered and constructed major utility, water and port authority projects from Virginia to Maine. Wintering in Naples, Fla., Joe and his wife Viola were prime movers behind the establishment of the Naples Italian American Foundation that supports numerous charitable organizations in the southwest Florida area. Joe founded and continues to organize the Italian American Open, a regional golf event supporting the Special Olympics. Joe served in the U.S. Army and is a Gold Sponsor of the Alpha Phi Delta Centennial.
David D. D’Eramo, PhD, (Psi ’61)
Dynamic hospital administrator and public servant
David D'Eramo received a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Duquesne University and a MBA from Xavier University, where he was first in his graduating class in the hospital administration program. He then attended the University of Cincinnati, where he earned his second master’s degree in community health planning and a PhD. in political science, focusing on business, health planning and organizational theory. Dave served Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford as its President and CEO for 16 years until his retirement in 2004. During his tenure, Dr. D'Eramo led the hospital through an era of rapid evolution in the health care industry. The primary result of this evolution has been the transformation of Saint Francis from a single hospital into an integrated health care delivery system known as Saint Francis Care. The largest Catholic hospital in New England, during his tenure, Saint Francis was recognized seven times as a Top 100 Hospital in the major teaching hospital category. Prior to joining Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, David served as president and chief executive officer of Saint Vincent Charity Hospital, a 492-bed acute care teaching hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Dave is also distinguished in public service and was a member of President Bush’s task force on Faith Based Initiatives. Having served as chairman of a myriad of prominent boards, Dr. D'Eramo served on the boards of the New England Cognitive Center, the Malta House of Care Foundation, The Hartford Club, the Greater Hartford Arts Council and Connecticut Public Broadcasting, Inc. Dr. D'Eramo is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a diplomat and fellow of the American Academy of Medical Administrators. On the national level, Dr. D'Eramo is a member of the American Association of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Dave’s current project is Dynamo Camp in Pistoia, Italy. The camp serves the needs of children with chronic illnesses. Dave and Judy currently make their home in Charleston, RI and Naples, Fla.
Dynamic hospital administrator and public servant
David D'Eramo received a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Duquesne University and a MBA from Xavier University, where he was first in his graduating class in the hospital administration program. He then attended the University of Cincinnati, where he earned his second master’s degree in community health planning and a PhD. in political science, focusing on business, health planning and organizational theory. Dave served Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford as its President and CEO for 16 years until his retirement in 2004. During his tenure, Dr. D'Eramo led the hospital through an era of rapid evolution in the health care industry. The primary result of this evolution has been the transformation of Saint Francis from a single hospital into an integrated health care delivery system known as Saint Francis Care. The largest Catholic hospital in New England, during his tenure, Saint Francis was recognized seven times as a Top 100 Hospital in the major teaching hospital category. Prior to joining Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, David served as president and chief executive officer of Saint Vincent Charity Hospital, a 492-bed acute care teaching hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. Dave is also distinguished in public service and was a member of President Bush’s task force on Faith Based Initiatives. Having served as chairman of a myriad of prominent boards, Dr. D'Eramo served on the boards of the New England Cognitive Center, the Malta House of Care Foundation, The Hartford Club, the Greater Hartford Arts Council and Connecticut Public Broadcasting, Inc. Dr. D'Eramo is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a diplomat and fellow of the American Academy of Medical Administrators. On the national level, Dr. D'Eramo is a member of the American Association of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Dave’s current project is Dynamo Camp in Pistoia, Italy. The camp serves the needs of children with chronic illnesses. Dave and Judy currently make their home in Charleston, RI and Naples, Fla.
Albert Demao, 1921-2008 (Psi ’41)
Professional football player, businessman and community leader
Al was born in New Kensington, Pa. and attended Arnold high school and then Duquesne University. At Duquesne, he was an all-American center on an undefeated football team and played in the 1941 Blue-Gray Game and the College All-Star Game. He earned a bachelor’s degree and was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1942.
Before he could begin his professional football career, he had a military obligation to fulfill. A lieutenant in the Navy, he was a landing craft skipper who made nine landings on D-Day on the beach at Normandy. He and his crew were preparing for the invasion of Japan when the war ended.
He reported to the Redskins in midseason in 1945 not having touched a football in four years. He went on to play nine seasons notably as a center snapping to the legendary Slingin’ Sammy Baugh. With the limited rosters of that era, he was a two-way player who averaged nearly 60 minutes a game some seasons. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 1950 and was honored with Al Demao Day in 1952.
Following his retirement from football he worked as a salesman for Milton S. Kronheim & Co., a liquor distributor, which he had done during his off-seasons. He eventually was named vice president of sales for the company’s restaurant and hotel division until his retirement in 1986.
He was deeply involved for many years with charitable groups and activities, including the Gallaudet Special Olympics, fundraising for muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis organizations, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation. He also helped out with the St. John's College High School football team and coached Catholic Youth Organization and Boys Club teams.
He was a founder of the Redskins Alumni Association in 1957 and the Redskins Welcome Home Luncheon. He was also a founder of the NFL alumni organization in 1967, serving on the board and participating in fundraising programs for needy former players.
In 2002, in honor of the Redskins’ 70th anniversary Al was named one of the 70 greatest Redskins.
Professional football player, businessman and community leader
Al was born in New Kensington, Pa. and attended Arnold high school and then Duquesne University. At Duquesne, he was an all-American center on an undefeated football team and played in the 1941 Blue-Gray Game and the College All-Star Game. He earned a bachelor’s degree and was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1942.
Before he could begin his professional football career, he had a military obligation to fulfill. A lieutenant in the Navy, he was a landing craft skipper who made nine landings on D-Day on the beach at Normandy. He and his crew were preparing for the invasion of Japan when the war ended.
He reported to the Redskins in midseason in 1945 not having touched a football in four years. He went on to play nine seasons notably as a center snapping to the legendary Slingin’ Sammy Baugh. With the limited rosters of that era, he was a two-way player who averaged nearly 60 minutes a game some seasons. He was a Pro Bowl selection in 1950 and was honored with Al Demao Day in 1952.
Following his retirement from football he worked as a salesman for Milton S. Kronheim & Co., a liquor distributor, which he had done during his off-seasons. He eventually was named vice president of sales for the company’s restaurant and hotel division until his retirement in 1986.
He was deeply involved for many years with charitable groups and activities, including the Gallaudet Special Olympics, fundraising for muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis organizations, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation. He also helped out with the St. John's College High School football team and coached Catholic Youth Organization and Boys Club teams.
He was a founder of the Redskins Alumni Association in 1957 and the Redskins Welcome Home Luncheon. He was also a founder of the NFL alumni organization in 1967, serving on the board and participating in fundraising programs for needy former players.
In 2002, in honor of the Redskins’ 70th anniversary Al was named one of the 70 greatest Redskins.
oseph DeNardo, (Psi ’50)
Meteorologist, television personality and community figure
A native of Martins Ferry, Ohio, Joe attended Wheeling Central Catholic HS in West Virginia, where he was a standout basketball player. He attended Duquesne University and served as president of Psi Chapter. After graduating in 1952, with a degree in mathematics and physics, Joe earned a master’s degree in meteorology from the University of Chicago in 1953. He served four years of active duty with the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of commander of the weather detachment at Greater Pittsburgh Air Force Base.
In 1956, he co-founded DeNardo and McFarland Weather Services, Inc. He later sold his interest in the business to become a full-time meteorologist for WTAE Channel 4 and WTAE Radio. Joe currently serves as WTAE’s weather consultant and also spent 10 years reporting on weather for KDKA-Radio. During his 45 year on-air tenure, he would visit schools almost every Wednesday speaking to an estimated half a million students. Joe has been honored by many meteorological societies for his outstanding achievements in the field. He was honored by the National Television Academy with a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award and holds memberships and certifications from several nationally recognized organizations. In addition to his professional achievements, he is known for his generosity in the community. He received the Vectors Pittsburgh Man of the Year Award for community service and numerous other awards for his ongoing commitment to organizations throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio. He is a member of the Air Pollution Control Association and serves as a member of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute and Medical Cancer Center Council. He was chairman of the Moon Township Parks and Recreation board for 22 years, and after serving as a board member at Duquesne University for 22 years, remains active on the board as a member emeritus. Joe is the chairman of Project Bundle-Up — a joint effort of WTAE Channel 4 and the Salvation Army to provide winter clothing for children in need. Project Bundle-Up has raised $10 million since 1986 and has helped more than 200,000 individuals. Joe and his late wife Dolores have two sons, three grandsons, and one granddaughter.
Meteorologist, television personality and community figure
A native of Martins Ferry, Ohio, Joe attended Wheeling Central Catholic HS in West Virginia, where he was a standout basketball player. He attended Duquesne University and served as president of Psi Chapter. After graduating in 1952, with a degree in mathematics and physics, Joe earned a master’s degree in meteorology from the University of Chicago in 1953. He served four years of active duty with the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of commander of the weather detachment at Greater Pittsburgh Air Force Base.
In 1956, he co-founded DeNardo and McFarland Weather Services, Inc. He later sold his interest in the business to become a full-time meteorologist for WTAE Channel 4 and WTAE Radio. Joe currently serves as WTAE’s weather consultant and also spent 10 years reporting on weather for KDKA-Radio. During his 45 year on-air tenure, he would visit schools almost every Wednesday speaking to an estimated half a million students. Joe has been honored by many meteorological societies for his outstanding achievements in the field. He was honored by the National Television Academy with a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award and holds memberships and certifications from several nationally recognized organizations. In addition to his professional achievements, he is known for his generosity in the community. He received the Vectors Pittsburgh Man of the Year Award for community service and numerous other awards for his ongoing commitment to organizations throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio. He is a member of the Air Pollution Control Association and serves as a member of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute and Medical Cancer Center Council. He was chairman of the Moon Township Parks and Recreation board for 22 years, and after serving as a board member at Duquesne University for 22 years, remains active on the board as a member emeritus. Joe is the chairman of Project Bundle-Up — a joint effort of WTAE Channel 4 and the Salvation Army to provide winter clothing for children in need. Project Bundle-Up has raised $10 million since 1986 and has helped more than 200,000 individuals. Joe and his late wife Dolores have two sons, three grandsons, and one granddaughter.
Dr. Philip P. DiStefano, (Xi ’65)
Prominent educator, university chancellor
A first-generation college graduate, Phil earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio State University and a Master of Arts degree in English Education from West Virginia University. He holds a Doctorate in Humanities Education from Ohio State University, where he served as a teaching and research associate. He began his educational career as a high school English teacher in Ohio. He has authored and co-authored numerous books and articles on various topics in literacy education. Phil joined the University of Colorado in 1974 as an Assistant Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the School of Education. His academic career flourished as he assumed a series of academic and administrative positions, including Professor, Associate Dean, Dean and Vice Chancellor. He was appointed Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs in 2001, which made him the top academic officer at the university. He served as interim chancellor twice during pivotal times in the university's history. Co-chairman of the steering committee for CU-Boulder's visionary strategic plan, Flagship 2030, conceived with campus, community and statewide input, to guide CU-Boulder for decades to come. On May 5, 2009, he was appointed Chancellor at the University of Colorado Boulder. As Chancellor he works closely with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, governing officials, and business and community leaders in extending CU's legacy as a preeminent national comprehensive research university. Today, he is shepherding the implementation of Flagship 2030 as it moves from vision to reality. Phil and his wife, Yvonne, have been married for 44 years. They are the parents of three grown daughters and the proud grandparents of two girls.
Prominent educator, university chancellor
A first-generation college graduate, Phil earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Ohio State University and a Master of Arts degree in English Education from West Virginia University. He holds a Doctorate in Humanities Education from Ohio State University, where he served as a teaching and research associate. He began his educational career as a high school English teacher in Ohio. He has authored and co-authored numerous books and articles on various topics in literacy education. Phil joined the University of Colorado in 1974 as an Assistant Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the School of Education. His academic career flourished as he assumed a series of academic and administrative positions, including Professor, Associate Dean, Dean and Vice Chancellor. He was appointed Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs in 2001, which made him the top academic officer at the university. He served as interim chancellor twice during pivotal times in the university's history. Co-chairman of the steering committee for CU-Boulder's visionary strategic plan, Flagship 2030, conceived with campus, community and statewide input, to guide CU-Boulder for decades to come. On May 5, 2009, he was appointed Chancellor at the University of Colorado Boulder. As Chancellor he works closely with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, governing officials, and business and community leaders in extending CU's legacy as a preeminent national comprehensive research university. Today, he is shepherding the implementation of Flagship 2030 as it moves from vision to reality. Phil and his wife, Yvonne, have been married for 44 years. They are the parents of three grown daughters and the proud grandparents of two girls.
Aldo (Buff) Donelli, 1907-1994 (Psi ’29)
Athlete, scholar, coach, U.S. Olympian
Member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame, college football star, scholar, coach, and founding member of Psi Chapter. Received his business undergraduate and graduate degree at Duquesne University. In 1934, he was selected to the U.S. Team in the 1934 FIFA World Cup. In a qualifying 4-2 victory over Mexico, held in Rome, he scored all four goals becoming the first American to score his first three international goals with the same team in the match. This feat wasn’t equaled until 2009. He was also the first man to coach both an NFL and college team at the same time, helming the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Duquesne Dukes simultaneously in 1941. In four seasons at Duquesne, he compiled a 29-4-2 record as the Dukes finished in the top 10 twice in four seasons. A tremendous leader of young men, Donelli also led Boston University into the nation’s top ten and led Columbia to an Ivy League Championship in 1961. The Columbia University weight room is named in his honor. Buff is truly one of the all-around sports legends in America. He died August 9, 1994, at the age of 87.
Athlete, scholar, coach, U.S. Olympian
Member of the National Soccer Hall of Fame, college football star, scholar, coach, and founding member of Psi Chapter. Received his business undergraduate and graduate degree at Duquesne University. In 1934, he was selected to the U.S. Team in the 1934 FIFA World Cup. In a qualifying 4-2 victory over Mexico, held in Rome, he scored all four goals becoming the first American to score his first three international goals with the same team in the match. This feat wasn’t equaled until 2009. He was also the first man to coach both an NFL and college team at the same time, helming the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Duquesne Dukes simultaneously in 1941. In four seasons at Duquesne, he compiled a 29-4-2 record as the Dukes finished in the top 10 twice in four seasons. A tremendous leader of young men, Donelli also led Boston University into the nation’s top ten and led Columbia to an Ivy League Championship in 1961. The Columbia University weight room is named in his honor. Buff is truly one of the all-around sports legends in America. He died August 9, 1994, at the age of 87.
Andrew N. Farnese, Esq., 1914-2003 (Beta Delta ’35)
Lawyer, banker, civic activist
A lawyer, banker and civic activist, Farnese earned a bachelor's degree from Temple University in 1937 and earned a law degree there in 1940. During World War II, he served stateside as an Army ordnance officer. Following his discharge, he established a general law practice in Philadelphia. Later he served as Special Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, followed by a term as Chairman of the Philadelphia Gas Works. He was a founding director of Lincoln National Bank, president of the Pfeiffer Foundation and General Compost Corp., director of Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and founded the William Penn Bank. He helped form the nonprofit Casa Fermi, which built an apartment complex for older residents in South Philadelphia, which was later renamed Casa Farnese. He served on the Philadelphia school board from 1990 until 2000. In 1995, he became the first Italian American to be named president, serving for one year. He also assisted children in his native Sicily, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to establish a Boys' Town in Palermo. He was among a group of prominent Italian Americans who successfully lobbied Congress to make Columbus Day a national holiday. The recipient of many honors for his civic and cultural activities, he was awarded a Papal Decoration of the Lateran Cross and the Cavaliere Di Gran Croce from the Italian government and the Purple Astor Award, Sons of Italy of America. In 2001, the Roman World exhibit at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology was named the Farnese Gallery in his honor.
Lawyer, banker, civic activist
A lawyer, banker and civic activist, Farnese earned a bachelor's degree from Temple University in 1937 and earned a law degree there in 1940. During World War II, he served stateside as an Army ordnance officer. Following his discharge, he established a general law practice in Philadelphia. Later he served as Special Deputy Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, followed by a term as Chairman of the Philadelphia Gas Works. He was a founding director of Lincoln National Bank, president of the Pfeiffer Foundation and General Compost Corp., director of Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and founded the William Penn Bank. He helped form the nonprofit Casa Fermi, which built an apartment complex for older residents in South Philadelphia, which was later renamed Casa Farnese. He served on the Philadelphia school board from 1990 until 2000. In 1995, he became the first Italian American to be named president, serving for one year. He also assisted children in his native Sicily, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to establish a Boys' Town in Palermo. He was among a group of prominent Italian Americans who successfully lobbied Congress to make Columbus Day a national holiday. The recipient of many honors for his civic and cultural activities, he was awarded a Papal Decoration of the Lateran Cross and the Cavaliere Di Gran Croce from the Italian government and the Purple Astor Award, Sons of Italy of America. In 2001, the Roman World exhibit at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology was named the Farnese Gallery in his honor.
Pasquale Franzese, 1912-1987 (Lambda ’32)
U.S. Army General and co-founder Astoria General Hospital
Dr. Franzese was graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1935 and the Long Island College of Medicine (now the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine) in 1939. He enlisted in the Army in 1941. During World War II, he rose to the permanent rank of major in the U.S. Army and commanded a medical battalion (with a temporary rank of Lt. Colonel). He received a Bronze Star Medal, a Purple Heart and served three years in the South Pacific where he participated in eight amphibious landings treating the wounded on the beaches while under enemy fire. He was discharged in 1946 and refused opportunities to join medical practices in Manhattan to begin a family medical practice in the neighborhood in which he grew up in Brooklyn, which he maintained until shortly before his passing. In 1949, he was part of a consortium of doctors that founded Astoria General Hospital where he served as the hospital’s president and treasurer. The hospital grew to the point that by 1965, it served more patients and delivered more babies than any private hospital in Queens. Today, it is known as Mount Sinai Queens, part of prestigious Mount Sinai Hospital and the only community hospital to bear the Mount Sinai name. For many years, Dr. Franzese was the attending physician for New York City’s Golden Gloves boxing tournament. Dr. Franzese was a great diagnostician and a pillar of the communities that he served. The author, Ed Falco, who grew up around the block from Dr. Franzese’s office, dedicated his novel, The Family Corleone, to his family and to Dr. Franzese “who came to our houses when we were sick and took care of us, often for free or for whatever little might be offered.” While it is ironic that a testimonial to the positive effect of an Italian-American on the lives of others should come in the dedication to a book that is an example of how Italian-Americans are negatively portrayed in popular culture, it is evidence of the true and overwhelmingly positive impact that Italian Americans have had on our Country.
U.S. Army General and co-founder Astoria General Hospital
Dr. Franzese was graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1935 and the Long Island College of Medicine (now the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine) in 1939. He enlisted in the Army in 1941. During World War II, he rose to the permanent rank of major in the U.S. Army and commanded a medical battalion (with a temporary rank of Lt. Colonel). He received a Bronze Star Medal, a Purple Heart and served three years in the South Pacific where he participated in eight amphibious landings treating the wounded on the beaches while under enemy fire. He was discharged in 1946 and refused opportunities to join medical practices in Manhattan to begin a family medical practice in the neighborhood in which he grew up in Brooklyn, which he maintained until shortly before his passing. In 1949, he was part of a consortium of doctors that founded Astoria General Hospital where he served as the hospital’s president and treasurer. The hospital grew to the point that by 1965, it served more patients and delivered more babies than any private hospital in Queens. Today, it is known as Mount Sinai Queens, part of prestigious Mount Sinai Hospital and the only community hospital to bear the Mount Sinai name. For many years, Dr. Franzese was the attending physician for New York City’s Golden Gloves boxing tournament. Dr. Franzese was a great diagnostician and a pillar of the communities that he served. The author, Ed Falco, who grew up around the block from Dr. Franzese’s office, dedicated his novel, The Family Corleone, to his family and to Dr. Franzese “who came to our houses when we were sick and took care of us, often for free or for whatever little might be offered.” While it is ironic that a testimonial to the positive effect of an Italian-American on the lives of others should come in the dedication to a book that is an example of how Italian-Americans are negatively portrayed in popular culture, it is evidence of the true and overwhelmingly positive impact that Italian Americans have had on our Country.
Richard F. Gaylord, (Beta Theta ’62)
Highly successful realtor, community leader and teacher
A native of Steubenville, Dick graduated from Steubenville Catholic Central prior to attending the Franciscan University of Steubenville from which he graduated in 1966.
He has held a California real estate broker’s license for over 30 years and served as president of the Greater Long Beach and California Associations of REALTORS. Long active with the National Association of REALTORS, he served as Chairman of the Issues Mobilization Committee in 1999, Liaison to the Public Policy Committee in 2001, Regional Vice President in 2003, Political Fundraising Chairman and Liaison to the Italian Federation of Real Estate Agents in 2004 and President in 2008. Dick is a member and past chairman of the Personnel Commission at Long Beach City College and has served as a member of the Board of Trustees at St. Mary Medical Center. He has been an arbitrator for the Long Beach Bar Association, chairperson of the State of California Board of Behavioral Science Examiners, served as chairman of the Long Beach Civil Service Commission and Planning Commission and a member of the State of California Real Estate Advisory Commission. A published author in real estate, Dick has taught at Long Beach City College and California State University, Long Beach. He was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by RE/MAX International. The March of Dimes honored him as the Real Estate Industry Man of the Year. In 1994 he was the recipient of the Franciscan University of Steubenville Personal Achievement Alumni Award for success in business and industry.
Highly successful realtor, community leader and teacher
A native of Steubenville, Dick graduated from Steubenville Catholic Central prior to attending the Franciscan University of Steubenville from which he graduated in 1966.
He has held a California real estate broker’s license for over 30 years and served as president of the Greater Long Beach and California Associations of REALTORS. Long active with the National Association of REALTORS, he served as Chairman of the Issues Mobilization Committee in 1999, Liaison to the Public Policy Committee in 2001, Regional Vice President in 2003, Political Fundraising Chairman and Liaison to the Italian Federation of Real Estate Agents in 2004 and President in 2008. Dick is a member and past chairman of the Personnel Commission at Long Beach City College and has served as a member of the Board of Trustees at St. Mary Medical Center. He has been an arbitrator for the Long Beach Bar Association, chairperson of the State of California Board of Behavioral Science Examiners, served as chairman of the Long Beach Civil Service Commission and Planning Commission and a member of the State of California Real Estate Advisory Commission. A published author in real estate, Dick has taught at Long Beach City College and California State University, Long Beach. He was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by RE/MAX International. The March of Dimes honored him as the Real Estate Industry Man of the Year. In 1994 he was the recipient of the Franciscan University of Steubenville Personal Achievement Alumni Award for success in business and industry.
Gaston Gianni, (Beta Theta ’62)
Long and distinguished career in Government Service; recognized and respected for his dynamic leadership
Gaston graduated from the Franciscan University of Steubenville in 1964. He began working in the United States Government Accountability Office and rose to Associate Director. He was required to testify numerous times before congressional committees on results of audits of government agencies and programs. Nominated by President Clinton on December 20, 1995, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on March 29, 1996, as the first presidentially appointed Inspector General of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). He was sworn into office on April 29, 1996 and served both the Clinton and Bush Administrations in that position until December 30, 2004. He headed an independent organization responsible for the audit, evaluation, and investigation of all FDIC programs and operations. Mr. Gianni led and coordinated the Office of Inspector General's efforts which resulted in over 700 reports with recommended actions to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness in corporate programs and operations. In addition, the Office’s investigative work resulted in over 200 convictions and $1.6 billion in fines, restitutions and monetary recoveries. Finally, he led a culture transformation within his office that resulted in more efficient and effective internal operations and a positive working relationship with the Corporation. As a presidentially appointed Inspector General, he was a member of the President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency. He served as Vice Chair of the Council from May 1999 until his retirement from federal service in December 2004. From November 1997 to May 1999 he served as chair of the council’s Audit Committee. Upon his retirement, the Council renamed its Better Government Award in his honor. In December 1998, he was appointed to the Comptroller General’s Advisory Council on Government Auditing Standards (Yellow Book) for a three-year term. In February 2003, he was awarded the Association of Government Accountants’ Distinguished Federal Leadership Award. He is a member of the Association of Inspectors General, Association of Government Accountants, and the Institute of Internal Auditors, where he is a Certified Government Audit Professional (CGAP). In May 2004, he received the IIA Washington Chapter’s William Taylor Distinguished Service Award.
Long and distinguished career in Government Service; recognized and respected for his dynamic leadership
Gaston graduated from the Franciscan University of Steubenville in 1964. He began working in the United States Government Accountability Office and rose to Associate Director. He was required to testify numerous times before congressional committees on results of audits of government agencies and programs. Nominated by President Clinton on December 20, 1995, and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on March 29, 1996, as the first presidentially appointed Inspector General of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). He was sworn into office on April 29, 1996 and served both the Clinton and Bush Administrations in that position until December 30, 2004. He headed an independent organization responsible for the audit, evaluation, and investigation of all FDIC programs and operations. Mr. Gianni led and coordinated the Office of Inspector General's efforts which resulted in over 700 reports with recommended actions to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness in corporate programs and operations. In addition, the Office’s investigative work resulted in over 200 convictions and $1.6 billion in fines, restitutions and monetary recoveries. Finally, he led a culture transformation within his office that resulted in more efficient and effective internal operations and a positive working relationship with the Corporation. As a presidentially appointed Inspector General, he was a member of the President's Council on Integrity and Efficiency. He served as Vice Chair of the Council from May 1999 until his retirement from federal service in December 2004. From November 1997 to May 1999 he served as chair of the council’s Audit Committee. Upon his retirement, the Council renamed its Better Government Award in his honor. In December 1998, he was appointed to the Comptroller General’s Advisory Council on Government Auditing Standards (Yellow Book) for a three-year term. In February 2003, he was awarded the Association of Government Accountants’ Distinguished Federal Leadership Award. He is a member of the Association of Inspectors General, Association of Government Accountants, and the Institute of Internal Auditors, where he is a Certified Government Audit Professional (CGAP). In May 2004, he received the IIA Washington Chapter’s William Taylor Distinguished Service Award.
Harvey Golub, (Mu ’60)
Highly successful business executive and leader. former chairman and CEO of American Express, philanthropist
Born in 1939 in Brooklyn, he attended Cornell University and received his bachelor’s degree from New York University in 1961. Mr. Golub was a Senior Partner with the McKinsey and Co. international management consulting firm when he left to join American Express as President and Chief Executive Officer of its IDS Financial Services unit, now known as Ameriprise Financial. Within 10 years he was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express Company. He was instrumental in helping to transform American Express after a period of unsuccessful and unfocused diversification. He streamlined a number of operations and divested of many non-core business lines including stock brokerage, insurance, and publishing. Under his stewardship, American Express reestablished its prestige in the credit card industry and returned to profitability. He has served on numerous corporate boards including as Chairman of Campbell Soup, Executive Chairman of Ripplewood Holdings LLC, and Chairman of American International Group, Inc. in the period following the financial crisis of 2008. He is chairman of GRS partners, a private equity firm he co-founded. In addition, he has been a director of New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy research. The Harvey Golub Professor of Business Leadership is endowed at New York University.
Highly successful business executive and leader. former chairman and CEO of American Express, philanthropist
Born in 1939 in Brooklyn, he attended Cornell University and received his bachelor’s degree from New York University in 1961. Mr. Golub was a Senior Partner with the McKinsey and Co. international management consulting firm when he left to join American Express as President and Chief Executive Officer of its IDS Financial Services unit, now known as Ameriprise Financial. Within 10 years he was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express Company. He was instrumental in helping to transform American Express after a period of unsuccessful and unfocused diversification. He streamlined a number of operations and divested of many non-core business lines including stock brokerage, insurance, and publishing. Under his stewardship, American Express reestablished its prestige in the credit card industry and returned to profitability. He has served on numerous corporate boards including as Chairman of Campbell Soup, Executive Chairman of Ripplewood Holdings LLC, and Chairman of American International Group, Inc. in the period following the financial crisis of 2008. He is chairman of GRS partners, a private equity firm he co-founded. In addition, he has been a director of New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy research. The Harvey Golub Professor of Business Leadership is endowed at New York University.
Felix Infausto, 1909-1992 (Epsilon ’29)
Lawyer and innovator in interstate child support legislation
Felix was born in 1909 in Jacobs, Pa. Despite losing both hands in an industrial accident as a teenager, he graduated with honors from high school and won a scholarship to the University of Buffalo, where he received both his undergraduate and law degrees. He had a long and varied career in law. After 11 years in private practice, he was appointed Assistant Attorney General of the state of New York. He moved on to the state Department of Social Services where he stayed for 32 years as a legal adviser and administrator. At the time of his retirement, he was the deputy commissioner for legal affairs at the department. He then returned to private practice, specializing in private matters. He authored “Interstate Enforcement of Family Support”, which is the authoritative reference in its field. He helped pioneer such novel social legislation as the Uniform Adoption Act, the Uniform Child Jurisdiction Act, the Interstate Compact on Juveniles, the Interstate Compact on Placement of Children and was one of the principal writers of the Family Court Act. He was a lecturer at the College of Saint Rose and was honored for his work by the Queen of England at Buckingham Palace in 1971. He belonged to the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the American Judicature Society, the Inter-American Bar Association, the American Public Welfare Association and the American Association of Public Welfare Attorneys. Felix was president of the Northeastern Regional Conference on Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support and was founder and director of Welfare Research Inc., a group engaged in social research. The Eastern Regional Interstate Child Support Association presents an annual Felix Infausto Award for leadership in the field. As a tribute, his widow Clara endowed the Felix Infausto Scholarship at the University of Buffalo providing support to students with disabilities, the Felix Infausto Memorial Annual Scholarship at Wilkes University and endowed the Felix Infausto Scholarship with the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation.
Lawyer and innovator in interstate child support legislation
Felix was born in 1909 in Jacobs, Pa. Despite losing both hands in an industrial accident as a teenager, he graduated with honors from high school and won a scholarship to the University of Buffalo, where he received both his undergraduate and law degrees. He had a long and varied career in law. After 11 years in private practice, he was appointed Assistant Attorney General of the state of New York. He moved on to the state Department of Social Services where he stayed for 32 years as a legal adviser and administrator. At the time of his retirement, he was the deputy commissioner for legal affairs at the department. He then returned to private practice, specializing in private matters. He authored “Interstate Enforcement of Family Support”, which is the authoritative reference in its field. He helped pioneer such novel social legislation as the Uniform Adoption Act, the Uniform Child Jurisdiction Act, the Interstate Compact on Juveniles, the Interstate Compact on Placement of Children and was one of the principal writers of the Family Court Act. He was a lecturer at the College of Saint Rose and was honored for his work by the Queen of England at Buckingham Palace in 1971. He belonged to the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the American Judicature Society, the Inter-American Bar Association, the American Public Welfare Association and the American Association of Public Welfare Attorneys. Felix was president of the Northeastern Regional Conference on Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support and was founder and director of Welfare Research Inc., a group engaged in social research. The Eastern Regional Interstate Child Support Association presents an annual Felix Infausto Award for leadership in the field. As a tribute, his widow Clara endowed the Felix Infausto Scholarship at the University of Buffalo providing support to students with disabilities, the Felix Infausto Memorial Annual Scholarship at Wilkes University and endowed the Felix Infausto Scholarship with the Alpha Phi Delta Foundation.
Francis J. Lunger, (Beta Rho ’64)
Accomplished executive in business and finance
Francis Lunger became interested in a career in finance when he was an undergraduate at Gannon University and his instructor, Mr. Ernie Wright, proposed the idea to him. Since then, the list of his accomplishments has grown to be long and dignified. After receiving his Accounting degree from Gannon, Fran began his career in Chicago at Arthur Anderson & Co. He spent eight years there during which time he became a CPA and also served 15 months with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He moved on to Baxter International, a Chicago-based multibillion dollar medical products company. At Baxter he served as Corporate Controller, Vice President of Finance and Administration, and Vice President of Home Health Care. He was part of the team that built Travenol into a $600 million business. In 1983, he joined Raychem Corporation in California as Corporate Controller and ultimately became Vice President and Group General Manager. While at Raychem, he launched the medical division and established a joint venture with U.S. Surgical for the development of laparoscopic surgical instruments. He then joined New Hampshire based Nashua Corporation, a conglomerate focused on office supplies. Originally brought in as part of a turn-around team in the role of Vice President of Finance and Administration, he eventually became acting CEO and President. His next stop was Oak Industries, a developer, manufacturer and seller of telecommunications equipment in Massachusetts as Senior Vice President and CFO. In 1997, he joined Millipore Corporation and served as President of Chief Executive Officer from 2001 to 2005. He executed a spin-off of the microelectronics business unit and transitioned the remaining business from a product-oriented, multi-industry filter company to a market-oriented bioscience business. He serves or has served as a Director on numerous corporate boards, an Operating Partner of Linden LLC private equity and is a Trustee of the Landmark School in Prides Crossing, MA. In 2010, he was honored by Gannon University as a Distinguished Alumnus.
Accomplished executive in business and finance
Francis Lunger became interested in a career in finance when he was an undergraduate at Gannon University and his instructor, Mr. Ernie Wright, proposed the idea to him. Since then, the list of his accomplishments has grown to be long and dignified. After receiving his Accounting degree from Gannon, Fran began his career in Chicago at Arthur Anderson & Co. He spent eight years there during which time he became a CPA and also served 15 months with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He moved on to Baxter International, a Chicago-based multibillion dollar medical products company. At Baxter he served as Corporate Controller, Vice President of Finance and Administration, and Vice President of Home Health Care. He was part of the team that built Travenol into a $600 million business. In 1983, he joined Raychem Corporation in California as Corporate Controller and ultimately became Vice President and Group General Manager. While at Raychem, he launched the medical division and established a joint venture with U.S. Surgical for the development of laparoscopic surgical instruments. He then joined New Hampshire based Nashua Corporation, a conglomerate focused on office supplies. Originally brought in as part of a turn-around team in the role of Vice President of Finance and Administration, he eventually became acting CEO and President. His next stop was Oak Industries, a developer, manufacturer and seller of telecommunications equipment in Massachusetts as Senior Vice President and CFO. In 1997, he joined Millipore Corporation and served as President of Chief Executive Officer from 2001 to 2005. He executed a spin-off of the microelectronics business unit and transitioned the remaining business from a product-oriented, multi-industry filter company to a market-oriented bioscience business. He serves or has served as a Director on numerous corporate boards, an Operating Partner of Linden LLC private equity and is a Trustee of the Landmark School in Prides Crossing, MA. In 2010, he was honored by Gannon University as a Distinguished Alumnus.
John A. Notte, Jr., 1909-1983 (Mu ’31)
State Governor, public servant
65th Governor of the State of Rhode Island (1961-63), Notte graduated from Providence College in 1931, attended Cornell University and received his law degree from Boston University. His career in government began as town solicitor in North Providence in 1937. During World War II, he served in the United States Navy and rose to the rank of lieutenant. Upon his return from the war, he was elected Chairman of the Rhode Island Veterans’ Bonus Board. He served eight years on the staff of Senator Theodore F. Green, was chairman of the North Providence Democratic Town Committee and a delegate to the 1960 Democratic National Convention. He was elected Rhode Island Secretary of State, became the 57th Lieutenant Governor and was elected to a two-year term as governor in 1960. One of his major accomplishments in office was the establishment of what is believed to have been the first statewide family court system. A park in North Providence is named in his honor.
State Governor, public servant
65th Governor of the State of Rhode Island (1961-63), Notte graduated from Providence College in 1931, attended Cornell University and received his law degree from Boston University. His career in government began as town solicitor in North Providence in 1937. During World War II, he served in the United States Navy and rose to the rank of lieutenant. Upon his return from the war, he was elected Chairman of the Rhode Island Veterans’ Bonus Board. He served eight years on the staff of Senator Theodore F. Green, was chairman of the North Providence Democratic Town Committee and a delegate to the 1960 Democratic National Convention. He was elected Rhode Island Secretary of State, became the 57th Lieutenant Governor and was elected to a two-year term as governor in 1960. One of his major accomplishments in office was the establishment of what is believed to have been the first statewide family court system. A park in North Providence is named in his honor.
Nicholas T. Pomaro, (Beta Mu ’57)
Judge and advocate for the blind or visually impaired
At the age of six, Nicholas lost his sight due to a rare blood disease that damaged the optic nerve. He qualified for the University of Notre Dame’s engineering program, but was dissuaded from entering the program and instead went there to study business. After a month, he transferred to DePaul University where he completed his business degree. He received a scholarship to attend law school and graduated in 1964 from the John Marshall Law School. After a short time in private practice, he worked at the Cook County state’s attorney office in the criminal division and fraud department. At first he did not work in the courtroom, but after successfully prosecuting a misdemeanor case and handling subsequent appeals, he remained working in the courtroom. After 10 years as a prosecutor who primarily handled criminal felony cases, he applied for a seat on the Cook County bench in 1976. He would spend 29 years on the bench as an associate judge and presided over cases in the 2nd and 3rd Municipal Districts. Two days after retiring in 2005, Judge Pomaro helped open the Chicago Lighthouse Arthur and Esther Kane Legal Clinic where he served as director until retiring in 2013. It is the only clinic of its kind in the country that provides pro bono legal assistance to blind people. He was instrumental in building the network of attorneys that services the clinic. Judge Pomaro has been the subject of numerous profiles in newspapers and magazines and the recipient of many honors including the 2008 Arlington Heights Pam Stocking Heart of Gold Award, 2010 Distinguished Service Award from the John Marshall Law School Alumni Association and the 2013 Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award from the Chicago Lighthouse. Nicholas and his wife Jean have seven children and many grandchildren.
Judge and advocate for the blind or visually impaired
At the age of six, Nicholas lost his sight due to a rare blood disease that damaged the optic nerve. He qualified for the University of Notre Dame’s engineering program, but was dissuaded from entering the program and instead went there to study business. After a month, he transferred to DePaul University where he completed his business degree. He received a scholarship to attend law school and graduated in 1964 from the John Marshall Law School. After a short time in private practice, he worked at the Cook County state’s attorney office in the criminal division and fraud department. At first he did not work in the courtroom, but after successfully prosecuting a misdemeanor case and handling subsequent appeals, he remained working in the courtroom. After 10 years as a prosecutor who primarily handled criminal felony cases, he applied for a seat on the Cook County bench in 1976. He would spend 29 years on the bench as an associate judge and presided over cases in the 2nd and 3rd Municipal Districts. Two days after retiring in 2005, Judge Pomaro helped open the Chicago Lighthouse Arthur and Esther Kane Legal Clinic where he served as director until retiring in 2013. It is the only clinic of its kind in the country that provides pro bono legal assistance to blind people. He was instrumental in building the network of attorneys that services the clinic. Judge Pomaro has been the subject of numerous profiles in newspapers and magazines and the recipient of many honors including the 2008 Arlington Heights Pam Stocking Heart of Gold Award, 2010 Distinguished Service Award from the John Marshall Law School Alumni Association and the 2013 Dr. Jacob Bolotin Award from the Chicago Lighthouse. Nicholas and his wife Jean have seven children and many grandchildren.
Dominic P. Renda, 1913 – 2006 (Xi ’33)
Airline pioneer, CEO
Airline industry executive and pioneer, Renda was born to immigrant parents in Steubenville, Ohio, and he received a bachelor’s degree and law degree from Ohio State University. He was a member of the track and field team for two years where he was a teammate of Jesse Owens. Admitted to the Ohio bar in 1938 and began private practice. He served as an administrative assistant to Rep. James G. Polk before enlisting in the Navy during World War II and rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. After the war, he joined Western Airlines as a vice-president’s assistant. He moved up the ranks at Western Airlines and moved to a high-ranking management position at Continental Airlines. He was founding president of the Air Micronesia subsidiary, where he developed air routes thru Micronesia linking 12 places between Hawaii and Okinawa, Japan. He returned to Western Airlines and was named president and later chief executive. In 1981, he was named chairman of the board and served as chairman emeritus until Western merged with Delta. He completed his 50-year career in the industry working as a consultant. He also served as chair of the Los Angeles County Bar Association Corporate Law Departments Section from 1959-1962.
Airline pioneer, CEO
Airline industry executive and pioneer, Renda was born to immigrant parents in Steubenville, Ohio, and he received a bachelor’s degree and law degree from Ohio State University. He was a member of the track and field team for two years where he was a teammate of Jesse Owens. Admitted to the Ohio bar in 1938 and began private practice. He served as an administrative assistant to Rep. James G. Polk before enlisting in the Navy during World War II and rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. After the war, he joined Western Airlines as a vice-president’s assistant. He moved up the ranks at Western Airlines and moved to a high-ranking management position at Continental Airlines. He was founding president of the Air Micronesia subsidiary, where he developed air routes thru Micronesia linking 12 places between Hawaii and Okinawa, Japan. He returned to Western Airlines and was named president and later chief executive. In 1981, he was named chairman of the board and served as chairman emeritus until Western merged with Delta. He completed his 50-year career in the industry working as a consultant. He also served as chair of the Los Angeles County Bar Association Corporate Law Departments Section from 1959-1962.
Martin Anthony Russo, (Beta Mu ’62)
United States Congressman
Born in Chicago, IL in 1944, he graduated from St. Ignatius in 1961 and entered De Paul University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. in 1965 and a juris doctorate in 1967. Admitted to the Illinois bar and commenced practice in Chicago and served as Assistant State’s Attorney for Cook County, IL from 1971-1973. In 1974, Marty was elected as a Democrat to the 94th Congress and went on to serve nine terms from 1975-1993. His tenure was distinguished by involvement in a broad range of public policy issues facing America’s businesses. These issues included tax policy, federal budgets, health care, energy and environmental policy, transportation, crime, immigration, trade, telecommunications, and small business issues. From 1979-1992, he served on the Ways and Means Committee. During his tenure, the Committee passed the Tax Reform Act of 1986. As Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health and Chairman of the Task Force on Income Security, he became a vocal advocate for affordable health care for all Americans, authoring a single-payer health care reform proposal. Mr. Russo was also appointed by the Committee on Ways and Means to be its representative to the House Budget Committee where he served from 1984-1990. In 1980, he became part of the House Democratic Leadership, serving as Floor Whip and a member of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee; and in 1976, joined the House Energy and Commerce Committee where he served until 1979 and was on the Subcommittees on Oversight and Investigations, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transportation. From 1975-1978, Mr. Russo served on the Small Business Committee, where he was a member of the Subcommittee on Regulation, Business Opportunities and Technology. When first elected to Congress, Mr. Russo was named to the House Judiciary Committee where he served on the Immigration Subcommittee and the Criminal Justice Subcommittee. He also served on the Select Committee on Aging. Following his terms in Congress, he joined the lobbying firm Cassidy & Associates, rising to the position of CEO. He left in 2010 and started Russo Capitol Strategies. He serves as a board member of the American-Australian Leadership Dialogue, on the Congressional Fiscal Leadership Council (CFLC) of the Campaign to Fix the Debt, and on the Advisory Board of the Leadership Institute at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, Cal
United States Congressman
Born in Chicago, IL in 1944, he graduated from St. Ignatius in 1961 and entered De Paul University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. in 1965 and a juris doctorate in 1967. Admitted to the Illinois bar and commenced practice in Chicago and served as Assistant State’s Attorney for Cook County, IL from 1971-1973. In 1974, Marty was elected as a Democrat to the 94th Congress and went on to serve nine terms from 1975-1993. His tenure was distinguished by involvement in a broad range of public policy issues facing America’s businesses. These issues included tax policy, federal budgets, health care, energy and environmental policy, transportation, crime, immigration, trade, telecommunications, and small business issues. From 1979-1992, he served on the Ways and Means Committee. During his tenure, the Committee passed the Tax Reform Act of 1986. As Vice Chairman of the Subcommittee on Health and Chairman of the Task Force on Income Security, he became a vocal advocate for affordable health care for all Americans, authoring a single-payer health care reform proposal. Mr. Russo was also appointed by the Committee on Ways and Means to be its representative to the House Budget Committee where he served from 1984-1990. In 1980, he became part of the House Democratic Leadership, serving as Floor Whip and a member of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee; and in 1976, joined the House Energy and Commerce Committee where he served until 1979 and was on the Subcommittees on Oversight and Investigations, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transportation. From 1975-1978, Mr. Russo served on the Small Business Committee, where he was a member of the Subcommittee on Regulation, Business Opportunities and Technology. When first elected to Congress, Mr. Russo was named to the House Judiciary Committee where he served on the Immigration Subcommittee and the Criminal Justice Subcommittee. He also served on the Select Committee on Aging. Following his terms in Congress, he joined the lobbying firm Cassidy & Associates, rising to the position of CEO. He left in 2010 and started Russo Capitol Strategies. He serves as a board member of the American-Australian Leadership Dialogue, on the Congressional Fiscal Leadership Council (CFLC) of the Campaign to Fix the Debt, and on the Advisory Board of the Leadership Institute at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, Cal
Henry Salvatori, 1901-1997 (Lambda ’21)
Executive, scientist, presidential advisor
A visionary in science, business, philanthropy and politics. He arrived in the United States with his immigrant family in 1906. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1923, he received a master’s degree in physics from Columbia University. He played a leading role with the development of the seismic method of oil exploration that is still an industry standard. In 1933, he founded Western Geophysical Company, which became a great success in providing geophysical exploration services worldwide. His passion for scientific development led him to establish the computer science center and chair in the computer science at the University of Southern California and a chair in computer and cognitive sciences at the University of Pennsylvania. In the 1950s, he was instrumental in the start of National Review and in the 1960s, the Henry Salvatori Center for the Study of Individual Freedom in the Modern World was established at Claremont-McKenna College and the Salvatori Center for American Founding Studies at Boston University. He was an early advisor to Ronald Reagan’s political career and a member of Reagan’s “Kitchen Cabinet.” In 1990, he established the Henry Salvatori Foundation to further the study of the American Founding and those civic principles that unite all Americans into one people.
Executive, scientist, presidential advisor
A visionary in science, business, philanthropy and politics. He arrived in the United States with his immigrant family in 1906. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1923, he received a master’s degree in physics from Columbia University. He played a leading role with the development of the seismic method of oil exploration that is still an industry standard. In 1933, he founded Western Geophysical Company, which became a great success in providing geophysical exploration services worldwide. His passion for scientific development led him to establish the computer science center and chair in the computer science at the University of Southern California and a chair in computer and cognitive sciences at the University of Pennsylvania. In the 1950s, he was instrumental in the start of National Review and in the 1960s, the Henry Salvatori Center for the Study of Individual Freedom in the Modern World was established at Claremont-McKenna College and the Salvatori Center for American Founding Studies at Boston University. He was an early advisor to Ronald Reagan’s political career and a member of Reagan’s “Kitchen Cabinet.” In 1990, he established the Henry Salvatori Foundation to further the study of the American Founding and those civic principles that unite all Americans into one people.
Dr. Peter Sammartino, 1904-1992 (Eta ’24)
Scholar, educator, innovator
An innovator in higher education and a leader in the Italian-American community. He was born in New York City into an immigrant family from Salerno. He graduated from the City College of New York in 1924 and earned his MA in 1928 and PhD in 1931 from New York University. He began his teaching career as a teacher of languages at Jamaica and Washington Irving High Schools. He accepted a teaching position at the experimental division of the Teacher’s College of Columbia University in 1933. Recognizing a need for higher education opportunities in Northern New Jersey and with the assistance of Col. Fairleigh S. Dickinson, he founded Fairleigh Dickinson College, a two-year college in Rutherford, NJ. Through acquisitions, he expanded it to the full-fledged multi-campus Fairleigh Dickinson University that now includes England and Canada. He retired in 1967 and became the school’s chancellor. He founded the International Association of University Presidents and also a member of the President’s Commission on Higher Education. He was a leading member of the Ellis Island Restoration Commission, founded the Phillip Mazzei project at FDU, was a NIAF regional Vice-President and a member of the American Italian Historical Association. He and his wife established the Peter and Sally Sammartino Charitable Remainder Unitrust and bequeath their estate to Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Scholar, educator, innovator
An innovator in higher education and a leader in the Italian-American community. He was born in New York City into an immigrant family from Salerno. He graduated from the City College of New York in 1924 and earned his MA in 1928 and PhD in 1931 from New York University. He began his teaching career as a teacher of languages at Jamaica and Washington Irving High Schools. He accepted a teaching position at the experimental division of the Teacher’s College of Columbia University in 1933. Recognizing a need for higher education opportunities in Northern New Jersey and with the assistance of Col. Fairleigh S. Dickinson, he founded Fairleigh Dickinson College, a two-year college in Rutherford, NJ. Through acquisitions, he expanded it to the full-fledged multi-campus Fairleigh Dickinson University that now includes England and Canada. He retired in 1967 and became the school’s chancellor. He founded the International Association of University Presidents and also a member of the President’s Commission on Higher Education. He was a leading member of the Ellis Island Restoration Commission, founded the Phillip Mazzei project at FDU, was a NIAF regional Vice-President and a member of the American Italian Historical Association. He and his wife established the Peter and Sally Sammartino Charitable Remainder Unitrust and bequeath their estate to Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Alfred E. Santangelo, 1912-1978 (Eta ’28)
U.S. Congressman, civic leader, Italian American advocate
Three term United States Congressman, four term New York State Senator and Italian-American advocate. Born in New York City, as a teenager, he was highly recommended by Congressman Fiorello La Guardia to attend West Point, but was too young to be admitted. He later overcame a potentially fatal bone disease and graduated from the City College of New York in 1935 and the Columbia University School of Law in 1938. He was admitted to the New York State bar in 1939 and began practicing law, serving as an assistant district attorney in 1945. He was elected to the New York State Senate serving four terms: from 1947 to 1950, and from 1953 to 1956. In 1956, he was elected to Congress as a Democrat representing New York’s 18th Congressional District and was re-elected for two more terms, serving under both Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy. He served on the House Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Agriculture as well as its Subcommittee on District of Columbia Appropriations. He was instrumental in funding the National School Lunch Program, fought immigration quotas and played a key role in the successful effort to have President Kennedy name the first Italian American, Anthony J. Celebrezze, to a U.S. Cabinet post. He also played a lead role in the naming of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. He campaigned to reform abuses of military spending and championed the cause of labor and programs for youth. After his Congressional career ended, Alfred resumed his law practice and further dedicated his efforts to promote the cause of Italian-Americans. He became president of the Americans of Italian Descent (A.I.D.) in 1970, editing its publication, The Challenge, and was a co-founder of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) in 1975. He was married to the late Betty L. Santangelo with whom he had five children. To honor his legacy, Betty Santangelo chronicled his story in the book Lucky Corner: The Biography of Alfred E. Santangelo and the Rise of Italian Americans In Politics.
U.S. Congressman, civic leader, Italian American advocate
Three term United States Congressman, four term New York State Senator and Italian-American advocate. Born in New York City, as a teenager, he was highly recommended by Congressman Fiorello La Guardia to attend West Point, but was too young to be admitted. He later overcame a potentially fatal bone disease and graduated from the City College of New York in 1935 and the Columbia University School of Law in 1938. He was admitted to the New York State bar in 1939 and began practicing law, serving as an assistant district attorney in 1945. He was elected to the New York State Senate serving four terms: from 1947 to 1950, and from 1953 to 1956. In 1956, he was elected to Congress as a Democrat representing New York’s 18th Congressional District and was re-elected for two more terms, serving under both Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy. He served on the House Appropriations Committee and its Subcommittee on Agriculture as well as its Subcommittee on District of Columbia Appropriations. He was instrumental in funding the National School Lunch Program, fought immigration quotas and played a key role in the successful effort to have President Kennedy name the first Italian American, Anthony J. Celebrezze, to a U.S. Cabinet post. He also played a lead role in the naming of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. He campaigned to reform abuses of military spending and championed the cause of labor and programs for youth. After his Congressional career ended, Alfred resumed his law practice and further dedicated his efforts to promote the cause of Italian-Americans. He became president of the Americans of Italian Descent (A.I.D.) in 1970, editing its publication, The Challenge, and was a co-founder of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) in 1975. He was married to the late Betty L. Santangelo with whom he had five children. To honor his legacy, Betty Santangelo chronicled his story in the book Lucky Corner: The Biography of Alfred E. Santangelo and the Rise of Italian Americans In Politics.
Hon. Robert V. Santangelo, 1896-1984 (Beta ’21)
3rd Grand Counsul, NYS Supreme Court Justice
Justice Santangelo graduated from the College of the City of New York and Columbia Law School. An assistant district attorney in Manhattan from 1924-1933, he became best known for his role in the Seabury investigations in 1931 and 1932. The inquiries led to the defeat of the Tammany Hall machine and the election of Fiorello H. La Guardia as Mayor of New York City in 1933. He had been a partner in the law firm of La Guardia, Sapinsky before joining the District Attorney’s office and remained a personal friend of Mayor La Guardia throughout his life. Justice Santangelo was a jurist for more than 30 years. He was first appointed to Magistrate's Court, in 1934. Later he was elected judge of the First District Municipal Court in Manhattan in 1951 after he was appointed to fill an unexpired term. He held the post for 20 years, then served in Civil Court for 10 years. He spent his last five years as a jurist in State Supreme Court, retiring in 1967. Brother Santangelo served the Fraternity as its 3rd Grand Consul elected in 1921 at a time when there were only 3 chapters and the future of the organization was in doubt. Through his efforts, five new chapters were formed and laid the foundation for further expansion in the following years. The Santangelo name is one of the more prominent in the history of Alpha Phi Delta. His two brothers, Alfred and George, also became brothers as did his son Bob, Jr., who was inducted as a graduate member at the age of 42.
3rd Grand Counsul, NYS Supreme Court Justice
Justice Santangelo graduated from the College of the City of New York and Columbia Law School. An assistant district attorney in Manhattan from 1924-1933, he became best known for his role in the Seabury investigations in 1931 and 1932. The inquiries led to the defeat of the Tammany Hall machine and the election of Fiorello H. La Guardia as Mayor of New York City in 1933. He had been a partner in the law firm of La Guardia, Sapinsky before joining the District Attorney’s office and remained a personal friend of Mayor La Guardia throughout his life. Justice Santangelo was a jurist for more than 30 years. He was first appointed to Magistrate's Court, in 1934. Later he was elected judge of the First District Municipal Court in Manhattan in 1951 after he was appointed to fill an unexpired term. He held the post for 20 years, then served in Civil Court for 10 years. He spent his last five years as a jurist in State Supreme Court, retiring in 1967. Brother Santangelo served the Fraternity as its 3rd Grand Consul elected in 1921 at a time when there were only 3 chapters and the future of the organization was in doubt. Through his efforts, five new chapters were formed and laid the foundation for further expansion in the following years. The Santangelo name is one of the more prominent in the history of Alpha Phi Delta. His two brothers, Alfred and George, also became brothers as did his son Bob, Jr., who was inducted as a graduate member at the age of 42.
Joseph Ralph Scalzo, 1920-1986 (Chi ’38)
Engineer, lawyer, civic leader and renowned figure in the international amateur wrestling community
Born in Newton, NJ, the youngest of seven children. He was active in athletics and music at Newton High School and was New Jersey High School state wrestling champion in 1936. He continued pursuing his musical and athletic interests at Penn State University and in 1939 was a NCAA wrestling finalist. After receiving his degree in chemical engineering in 1941, he began a 38-year career with Sun Oil. Entering the University of Toledo School of Law, he received his juris doctorate in 1948. In 1949, he founded the wrestling program at the University of Toledo. During his 16-year tenure he coached six All-Americans, an NCAA champion and a three-time Olympian. He served as coach of the United States Greco-Roman wrestling team at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and was an official at the subsequent Rome, Tokyo and Mexico City Olympics. He was a Toledo City Councilman from 1958-1960 and continued his education by attending the Columbia University Graduate School in Executive Business Administration, graduating in 1961. Active in the National Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), he organized the first two World Championships in wrestling held in the United States. He would become President of the National AAU in 1973 and was elected to the U.S. Olympic Board of Directors Executive Committee. He also represented the U.S. in the International Amateur Wrestling Federation. A board member of numerous civic associations including president of the Board of Trustees of Parkview Hospital and president of the Toledo Opera Association. After retiring from Sun Oil, he became a senior partner in the law firm of Scalzo and Scalzo with his son. Among the many honors he received, he was selected as a University of Toledo Outstanding Alumnus in 1957, named to the University of Toledo Athletics Hall of Fame in 1977, named a distinguished member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1987 and the AAU wrestling Hall of Fame in 1999. He and his wife Edith were the parents of six children.
Engineer, lawyer, civic leader and renowned figure in the international amateur wrestling community
Born in Newton, NJ, the youngest of seven children. He was active in athletics and music at Newton High School and was New Jersey High School state wrestling champion in 1936. He continued pursuing his musical and athletic interests at Penn State University and in 1939 was a NCAA wrestling finalist. After receiving his degree in chemical engineering in 1941, he began a 38-year career with Sun Oil. Entering the University of Toledo School of Law, he received his juris doctorate in 1948. In 1949, he founded the wrestling program at the University of Toledo. During his 16-year tenure he coached six All-Americans, an NCAA champion and a three-time Olympian. He served as coach of the United States Greco-Roman wrestling team at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and was an official at the subsequent Rome, Tokyo and Mexico City Olympics. He was a Toledo City Councilman from 1958-1960 and continued his education by attending the Columbia University Graduate School in Executive Business Administration, graduating in 1961. Active in the National Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), he organized the first two World Championships in wrestling held in the United States. He would become President of the National AAU in 1973 and was elected to the U.S. Olympic Board of Directors Executive Committee. He also represented the U.S. in the International Amateur Wrestling Federation. A board member of numerous civic associations including president of the Board of Trustees of Parkview Hospital and president of the Toledo Opera Association. After retiring from Sun Oil, he became a senior partner in the law firm of Scalzo and Scalzo with his son. Among the many honors he received, he was selected as a University of Toledo Outstanding Alumnus in 1957, named to the University of Toledo Athletics Hall of Fame in 1977, named a distinguished member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1987 and the AAU wrestling Hall of Fame in 1999. He and his wife Edith were the parents of six children.
Judge Vito J. Titone, 1929-2005 (Theta Beta)
Justice New York State Court of Appeals
Vito Joseph Titone was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Queens. He graduated from New York University in 1951 and enlisted in the Army a few months after his graduation. Although he was scheduled to go to Korea, Vito was diverted to England where he was assigned the unlikely job of photographer for the Army's Public Information Office. Following his military service, he entered law school and received his law degree from St. John's University in 1956, where he was a classmate of future New York Governor, Mario Cuomo. He began in private practice at a large New York City law firm and then left to start his own small Manhattan firm. He taught law at Staten Island College and later at St. John's.
He twice ran unsuccessfully for the State Senate and was elected to the State Supreme Court on Staten Island in 1969, at the time the youngest person to do so. In 1975, Gov. Hugh L. Carey named him to the Appellate Division, the middle level of the state court system.
In 1985, Governor Cuomo elevated him to an associate judge on the New York State Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court. He became the first Italian-American appointed to the Court and served until his retirement in 1998. He continued to practice law part-time with the firm of Mintz & Gold. During his tenure on the state’s highest court, he authored many notable opinions. He considered among his most important a 1996 opinion that overturned a family law precedent in the state and held that the courts must focus on the best interests of the child when ruling on a custodial parent's wish to relocate. "It is the rights and needs of the children that must be accorded the greatest weight," he wrote, "since they are innocent victims of their parents' decision to divorce and are the least equipped to handle the stresses of the changing family situation."
Justice New York State Court of Appeals
Vito Joseph Titone was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Queens. He graduated from New York University in 1951 and enlisted in the Army a few months after his graduation. Although he was scheduled to go to Korea, Vito was diverted to England where he was assigned the unlikely job of photographer for the Army's Public Information Office. Following his military service, he entered law school and received his law degree from St. John's University in 1956, where he was a classmate of future New York Governor, Mario Cuomo. He began in private practice at a large New York City law firm and then left to start his own small Manhattan firm. He taught law at Staten Island College and later at St. John's.
He twice ran unsuccessfully for the State Senate and was elected to the State Supreme Court on Staten Island in 1969, at the time the youngest person to do so. In 1975, Gov. Hugh L. Carey named him to the Appellate Division, the middle level of the state court system.
In 1985, Governor Cuomo elevated him to an associate judge on the New York State Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court. He became the first Italian-American appointed to the Court and served until his retirement in 1998. He continued to practice law part-time with the firm of Mintz & Gold. During his tenure on the state’s highest court, he authored many notable opinions. He considered among his most important a 1996 opinion that overturned a family law precedent in the state and held that the courts must focus on the best interests of the child when ruling on a custodial parent's wish to relocate. "It is the rights and needs of the children that must be accorded the greatest weight," he wrote, "since they are innocent victims of their parents' decision to divorce and are the least equipped to handle the stresses of the changing family situation."
George A. Vecchione, (Beta Sigma ’64)
Health and Hospitals Chief Executive
George, a native of New York City, is a certified public accountant. He earned an undergraduate degree in accounting from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, NY and also holds a master’s degree in health care management systems from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY. He began his career in 1967 with the accounting firm Haskins and Sells, and entered health care in 1970 as assistant director of finance with Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. In 1976, he began a 12-year period of service as president and chief executive officer of the New Rochelle Hospital Medical Center, a 481-bed teaching facility in Westchester County, NY. In 1988, he was named executive vice president and director of The New York Hospital, an acute care facility that is the principal teaching hospital of Cornell University Medical School. He was instrumental in the merger of The New York Hospital with Presbyterian Hospital a facility that is the principal teaching hospital for Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons and was appointed executive vice president of The New York Presbyterian Healthcare System in 1997. While in New York, he served as chairman of the board of the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS). He is a recipient of one of the highest awards of the American College of Healthcare Executives, the Regents Award for Senior Level Executives. A Fellow in the Healthcare Financial Management Association, he was honored by the organization’s William G. Follner and Robert H. Reeves merit awards for outstanding service. He was also recognized as the United Way’s Man of the Year. In 1988, he was named president and chief executive officer of Lifespan, a major New England health care system with four partners in Rhode Island. He serves as Chairman of the Board of the Rhode Island Quality Institute as well as serving as a member on the boards of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. He was appointed by the Governor to be member of the Governor’s Economic Policy Council. George was honored with Modern Healthcare Magazine’s 2003 CEO IT Achievement Award.
Health and Hospitals Chief Executive
George, a native of New York City, is a certified public accountant. He earned an undergraduate degree in accounting from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, NY and also holds a master’s degree in health care management systems from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY. He began his career in 1967 with the accounting firm Haskins and Sells, and entered health care in 1970 as assistant director of finance with Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. In 1976, he began a 12-year period of service as president and chief executive officer of the New Rochelle Hospital Medical Center, a 481-bed teaching facility in Westchester County, NY. In 1988, he was named executive vice president and director of The New York Hospital, an acute care facility that is the principal teaching hospital of Cornell University Medical School. He was instrumental in the merger of The New York Hospital with Presbyterian Hospital a facility that is the principal teaching hospital for Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons and was appointed executive vice president of The New York Presbyterian Healthcare System in 1997. While in New York, he served as chairman of the board of the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS). He is a recipient of one of the highest awards of the American College of Healthcare Executives, the Regents Award for Senior Level Executives. A Fellow in the Healthcare Financial Management Association, he was honored by the organization’s William G. Follner and Robert H. Reeves merit awards for outstanding service. He was also recognized as the United Way’s Man of the Year. In 1988, he was named president and chief executive officer of Lifespan, a major New England health care system with four partners in Rhode Island. He serves as Chairman of the Board of the Rhode Island Quality Institute as well as serving as a member on the boards of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. He was appointed by the Governor to be member of the Governor’s Economic Policy Council. George was honored with Modern Healthcare Magazine’s 2003 CEO IT Achievement Award.
