Joseph Cavera
High School Scholarship Recipient and YAA Board Member.
I was the first in my family to receive a scholarship from CCF in 2005 to attend high school, followed by my older brother Robert, who received a college scholarship in 2006, and our middle sister Veronica, who received hers in 2007 also for college. We still have our CCF award certificates hanging in our family home in New Jersey, and the scholarships we received have made remarkable differences in each of our lives.
When I was entering high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to the public high school in my town, but when we looked at Bergen Catholic High School, my parents knew they would not be able to afford the full tuition. We attended one of the open houses, and one of the admissions officers mentioned the Columbus Citizens Foundation and how it helped young scholars. One afternoon, a few months before I would start high school, we received the call informing us I had been granted a scholarship, and my family was in disbelief and completely thrilled.
With my scholarship, I attended Bergen Catholic and learned incredible discipline in one of the top soccer programs in the state, in addition to getting a quality education, which prepared me for college. I was able to go to Stony Brook University, where I later graduated with honors with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and to Montclair State University, where I graduated with an M.S. in Sustainability Science. During my studies, I met an environmental project manager - and fellow Italian - by the name of Nicholas D’Ambrosio, who served as both an advisor and mentor, who years later would build up his own environmental firm, The Nomad Group, where I now work as a staff project scientist and assistant project manager.
Around the time I graduated from Montclair State in 2015, I was invited to attend the Primavera Social at the CCF Townhouse. There I met Lisa Tarantino, who would become the next CCF Young Adults Auxiliary president, and Anthony Zampolin, a fellow Bergen Catholic alumnus who would become the YAA president after Lisa. After speaking with them and other members, I excitedly joined the YAA, and was a highly active member. When the next elections were held, I made a bid for secretary. Lisa informed me shortly thereafter that I would be serving as the secretary of the YAA for the next two years.
I have been serving my fellow YAA Board members by facilitating communications, recruiting, evaluating applications of prospective members, maintaining our active roster, sending out announcements, and helping to plan and run our bi-annual galas and other events at CCF and beyond. Getting to meet new members and celebrate with fellow YAA Board members Anthony Zampolin, Mike Ippolito, and Steve Dardis at the end of the night have been among my happiest memories serving as the YAA Secretary.
If you have ever been somewhere and felt in your heart that it was where you were meant to be, then you know how I felt, and still feel, giving back to CCF. The Foundation helped my siblings and I foster academically and in the process, became a second family to the Caveras.
June 1, 2020
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
Lauren Calderaro
A CCF Internship at Fiserv and College Scholarship to James Madison University Honors College helped Lauren Calderaro land a job at Goldman Sachs
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From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
April 14, 2020
Luke Tortora
A recent UPenn graduate working in the healthcare field shares thoughts on his Italian heritage and the CCF Scholarship he received
I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (C’19) where I pursued a major in Health and Societies, minors in Healthcare Management and Neuroscience, and supplementary coursework through Wharton. Currently, I work as an Associate Consultant at Putnam Associates, a strategy consulting firm serving global biopharmaceutical clients, where I have to date worked on engagements supporting cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, along with the global commercialization of several new vaccines. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, playing the drums, and drawing portraits.
As I reflect on my time at Penn, I consider how the support I received from the Columbus Citizens Foundation enabled me to avail myself of so many of the opportunities I was provided. At Penn, I was fortunate enough to be involved in several pre-professional and community initiatives. On the pre-professional side, I served as a Project Leader on the Social Impact Consulting Group, a pro bono student-run consultancy. On the community side, I served in several leadership roles and advisory capacities at the Netter Center, Penn’s hub for civic engagement in West Philadelphia. I also was active as a senior staffer for Model United Nations and wrote for Wharton’s student policy blog. CCF’s backing gave me the freedom to explore my passions at Penn, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to do so.
CCF was also instrumental in placing me for an internship after my junior year. I spent that summer working with the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, a nonprofit serving peer nonprofits with consulting, placement, and business development services. I spent the summer conducting a market analysis to advise a large community center in Queens on the launch of an after-school program; in short, CCF found the perfect opportunity for me to combine my interests in consulting and civic engagement.
Underpinning my work is a sense of integrity and ethic, which I credit to my Italian heritage, and more specifically to my grandfather, who was (and is) my biggest role model. My grandfather lived the true American Dream: he emigrated from Sicily after the Second World War, withstood discrimination in the States despite having a university education, and rose from humble beginnings working in a laundromat to become the owner of several businesses and a respected leader in his Brooklyn community. In addition to instilling in me an understanding of Italianità, and a love for all things Italian and Sicilian, my grandfather’s struggle and success paved the path for me to pursue my passions. During late nights at school or work, or in times of uncertainty or adversity, the thought my grandfather’s resolve inspires me to soldier on.
My appreciation for the Columbus Citizens Foundation is partly due to how intimately they understand stories like mine and my grandfather’s; it is incredibly encouraging that they continue to support Italian diaspora like myself and seek to promote our rich culture and history. I continue to stay involved with the Foundation through the Young Adults Auxiliary and I look forward to many more years of engagement and community!
March 18, 2020
Francesca Santacroce
A first-generation college graduate reflects on the impact of her
CCF Scholarship and Internship Program
My interest in changing peoples’ lives has heavily influenced my goals, ambitions, and plans to pursue a medical degree after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomolecular Science with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, at New York University Tandon School of Engineering. My experiences as a woman in a STEM field and a first-generation college student have greatly impacted my personal and professional goals. While at NYU, I was fortunate enough to participate in numerous educational projects that taught me professionalism and gave me a solid foundation in applied sciences, granted through my strong Italian work ethic, NYU faculty, and the Columbus Citizens Foundation.
As a teaching assistant at NYU, I have educated and mentored students from all walks of life with diverse interests. I managed a sector of biomolecular science courses, leading a staff of ten graduate students to efficiently carry out laboratory experiments and fairly grade student reports. I was recommended to be lead researcher after completing my freshman year for a project called “The Staff of Gandalf,” where ultrasound and infrared sensors are incorporated into a basic white cane to safely and efficiently help the blind community. As an avid yoga practitioner and instructor, I designed and co-founded a yoga and physiology course and scientific research conference at NYU to educate the community about the data that supports biological, psychological, and physiological benefits of yoga.
From the start of my college career, the Columbus Citizens Foundation has played a significant role in the professional opportunities I have obtained in my undergraduate and graduate career. I was fortunate enough to become a CCF College Scholarship recipient and when CCF began their internship program, I was offered an opportunity at Weill Cornell Medical College in their ophthalmology department. Then I started an internship with Dr. Joseph Lombardi. There, I learned the importance of patient care, compassionate bedside manner, and clinical procedures. I am now an Assistant Supervisor for Edison Spine Center with Dr. Lombardi at Edison Metuchen Orthopedic Group. I am applying to medical school for the 2021 school year and I aspire to open my own practice in the future.
My strongest influences in life have been the women in my family. My grandmothers, both immigrants from Italy, and my mother are the reasons that I am not only the first woman, but the first person to graduate from university in my family. My mother also suffers from Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, a rare genetic disorder that results in end-stage renal failure. Her strength and determination to wait on the long and frustrating organ donation list inspires me to be patient and unwavering throughout medical school and in my career as a physician. Outside of work and academics, I volunteer as a crisis intervention counselor for RAINN, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, helping survivors and loved ones of those who have been affected by sexual violence.
I am so honored to be a member of the Columbus Citizens Foundation, not only as a scholarship and internship recipient, but also as a Young Adults Auxiliary member. It is the young people who truly make changes and a difference in the world, and we must support them to obtain educations and solid foundations. Thank you to the Columbus Citizens Foundation, from the bottom of my heart, for the morals by which they stand, and for what they do for young professionals such as myself.
February 10, 2020
Joseph Cavera
High School Scholarship Recipient and YAA Board Member.
I was the first in my family to receive a scholarship from CCF in 2005 to attend high school, followed by my older brother Robert, who received a college scholarship in 2006, and our middle sister Veronica, who received hers in 2007 also for college. We still have our CCF award certificates hanging in our family home in New Jersey, and the scholarships we received have made remarkable differences in each of our lives.
When I was entering high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to the public high school in my town, but when we looked at Bergen Catholic High School, my parents knew they would not be able to afford the full tuition. We attended one of the open houses, and one of the admissions officers mentioned the Columbus Citizens Foundation and how it helped young scholars. One afternoon, a few months before I would start high school, we received the call informing us I had been granted a scholarship, and my family was in disbelief and completely thrilled.
With my scholarship, I attended Bergen Catholic and learned incredible discipline in one of the top soccer programs in the state, in addition to getting a quality education, which prepared me for college. I was able to go to Stony Brook University, where I later graduated with honors with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and to Montclair State University, where I graduated with an M.S. in Sustainability Science. During my studies, I met an environmental project manager - and fellow Italian - by the name of Nicholas D’Ambrosio, who served as both an advisor and mentor, who years later would build up his own environmental firm, The Nomad Group, where I now work as a staff project scientist and assistant project manager.
Around the time I graduated from Montclair State in 2015, I was invited to attend the Primavera Social at the CCF Townhouse. There I met Lisa Tarantino, who would become the next CCF Young Adults Auxiliary president, and Anthony Zampolin, a fellow Bergen Catholic alumnus who would become the YAA president after Lisa. After speaking with them and other members, I excitedly joined the YAA, and was a highly active member. When the next elections were held, I made a bid for secretary. Lisa informed me shortly thereafter that I would be serving as the secretary of the YAA for the next two years.
I have been serving my fellow YAA Board members by facilitating communications, recruiting, evaluating applications of prospective members, maintaining our active roster, sending out announcements, and helping to plan and run our bi-annual galas and other events at CCF and beyond. Getting to meet new members and celebrate with fellow YAA Board members Anthony Zampolin, Mike Ippolito, and Steve Dardis at the end of the night have been among my happiest memories serving as the YAA Secretary.
If you have ever been somewhere and felt in your heart that it was where you were meant to be, then you know how I felt, and still feel, giving back to CCF. The Foundation helped my siblings and I foster academically and in the process, became a second family to the Caveras.
June 1, 2020
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
Lauren Calderaro
A CCF Internship at Fiserv and College Scholarship to James Madison University Honors College helped Lauren Calderaro land a job at Goldman Sachs
From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
April 14, 2020
Luke Tortora
A recent UPenn graduate working in the healthcare field shares thoughts on his Italian heritage and the CCF Scholarship he received
I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (C’19) where I pursued a major in Health and Societies, minors in Healthcare Management and Neuroscience, and supplementary coursework through Wharton. Currently, I work as an Associate Consultant at Putnam Associates, a strategy consulting firm serving global biopharmaceutical clients, where I have to date worked on engagements supporting cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, along with the global commercialization of several new vaccines. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, playing the drums, and drawing portraits.
As I reflect on my time at Penn, I consider how the support I received from the Columbus Citizens Foundation enabled me to avail myself of so many of the opportunities I was provided. At Penn, I was fortunate enough to be involved in several pre-professional and community initiatives. On the pre-professional side, I served as a Project Leader on the Social Impact Consulting Group, a pro bono student-run consultancy. On the community side, I served in several leadership roles and advisory capacities at the Netter Center, Penn’s hub for civic engagement in West Philadelphia. I also was active as a senior staffer for Model United Nations and wrote for Wharton’s student policy blog. CCF’s backing gave me the freedom to explore my passions at Penn, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to do so.
CCF was also instrumental in placing me for an internship after my junior year. I spent that summer working with the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, a nonprofit serving peer nonprofits with consulting, placement, and business development services. I spent the summer conducting a market analysis to advise a large community center in Queens on the launch of an after-school program; in short, CCF found the perfect opportunity for me to combine my interests in consulting and civic engagement.
Underpinning my work is a sense of integrity and ethic, which I credit to my Italian heritage, and more specifically to my grandfather, who was (and is) my biggest role model. My grandfather lived the true American Dream: he emigrated from Sicily after the Second World War, withstood discrimination in the States despite having a university education, and rose from humble beginnings working in a laundromat to become the owner of several businesses and a respected leader in his Brooklyn community. In addition to instilling in me an understanding of Italianità, and a love for all things Italian and Sicilian, my grandfather’s struggle and success paved the path for me to pursue my passions. During late nights at school or work, or in times of uncertainty or adversity, the thought my grandfather’s resolve inspires me to soldier on.
My appreciation for the Columbus Citizens Foundation is partly due to how intimately they understand stories like mine and my grandfather’s; it is incredibly encouraging that they continue to support Italian diaspora like myself and seek to promote our rich culture and history. I continue to stay involved with the Foundation through the Young Adults Auxiliary and I look forward to many more years of engagement and community!
March 18, 2020
Francesca Santacroce
A first-generation college graduate reflects on the impact of her
CCF Scholarship and Internship Program
My interest in changing peoples’ lives has heavily influenced my goals, ambitions, and plans to pursue a medical degree after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomolecular Science with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, at New York University Tandon School of Engineering. My experiences as a woman in a STEM field and a first-generation college student have greatly impacted my personal and professional goals. While at NYU, I was fortunate enough to participate in numerous educational projects that taught me professionalism and gave me a solid foundation in applied sciences, granted through my strong Italian work ethic, NYU faculty, and the Columbus Citizens Foundation.
As a teaching assistant at NYU, I have educated and mentored students from all walks of life with diverse interests. I managed a sector of biomolecular science courses, leading a staff of ten graduate students to efficiently carry out laboratory experiments and fairly grade student reports. I was recommended to be lead researcher after completing my freshman year for a project called “The Staff of Gandalf,” where ultrasound and infrared sensors are incorporated into a basic white cane to safely and efficiently help the blind community. As an avid yoga practitioner and instructor, I designed and co-founded a yoga and physiology course and scientific research conference at NYU to educate the community about the data that supports biological, psychological, and physiological benefits of yoga.
From the start of my college career, the Columbus Citizens Foundation has played a significant role in the professional opportunities I have obtained in my undergraduate and graduate career. I was fortunate enough to become a CCF College Scholarship recipient and when CCF began their internship program, I was offered an opportunity at Weill Cornell Medical College in their ophthalmology department. Then I started an internship with Dr. Joseph Lombardi. There, I learned the importance of patient care, compassionate bedside manner, and clinical procedures. I am now an Assistant Supervisor for Edison Spine Center with Dr. Lombardi at Edison Metuchen Orthopedic Group. I am applying to medical school for the 2021 school year and I aspire to open my own practice in the future.
My strongest influences in life have been the women in my family. My grandmothers, both immigrants from Italy, and my mother are the reasons that I am not only the first woman, but the first person to graduate from university in my family. My mother also suffers from Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, a rare genetic disorder that results in end-stage renal failure. Her strength and determination to wait on the long and frustrating organ donation list inspires me to be patient and unwavering throughout medical school and in my career as a physician. Outside of work and academics, I volunteer as a crisis intervention counselor for RAINN, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, helping survivors and loved ones of those who have been affected by sexual violence.
I am so honored to be a member of the Columbus Citizens Foundation, not only as a scholarship and internship recipient, but also as a Young Adults Auxiliary member. It is the young people who truly make changes and a difference in the world, and we must support them to obtain educations and solid foundations. Thank you to the Columbus Citizens Foundation, from the bottom of my heart, for the morals by which they stand, and for what they do for young professionals such as myself.
February 10, 2020
Joseph Cavera
High School Scholarship Recipient and YAA Board Member.
I was the first in my family to receive a scholarship from CCF in 2005 to attend high school, followed by my older brother Robert, who received a college scholarship in 2006, and our middle sister Veronica, who received hers in 2007 also for college. We still have our CCF award certificates hanging in our family home in New Jersey, and the scholarships we received have made remarkable differences in each of our lives.
When I was entering high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to the public high school in my town, but when we looked at Bergen Catholic High School, my parents knew they would not be able to afford the full tuition. We attended one of the open houses, and one of the admissions officers mentioned the Columbus Citizens Foundation and how it helped young scholars. One afternoon, a few months before I would start high school, we received the call informing us I had been granted a scholarship, and my family was in disbelief and completely thrilled.
With my scholarship, I attended Bergen Catholic and learned incredible discipline in one of the top soccer programs in the state, in addition to getting a quality education, which prepared me for college. I was able to go to Stony Brook University, where I later graduated with honors with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and to Montclair State University, where I graduated with an M.S. in Sustainability Science. During my studies, I met an environmental project manager - and fellow Italian - by the name of Nicholas D’Ambrosio, who served as both an advisor and mentor, who years later would build up his own environmental firm, The Nomad Group, where I now work as a staff project scientist and assistant project manager.
Around the time I graduated from Montclair State in 2015, I was invited to attend the Primavera Social at the CCF Townhouse. There I met Lisa Tarantino, who would become the next CCF Young Adults Auxiliary president, and Anthony Zampolin, a fellow Bergen Catholic alumnus who would become the YAA president after Lisa. After speaking with them and other members, I excitedly joined the YAA, and was a highly active member. When the next elections were held, I made a bid for secretary. Lisa informed me shortly thereafter that I would be serving as the secretary of the YAA for the next two years.
I have been serving my fellow YAA Board members by facilitating communications, recruiting, evaluating applications of prospective members, maintaining our active roster, sending out announcements, and helping to plan and run our bi-annual galas and other events at CCF and beyond. Getting to meet new members and celebrate with fellow YAA Board members Anthony Zampolin, Mike Ippolito, and Steve Dardis at the end of the night have been among my happiest memories serving as the YAA Secretary.
If you have ever been somewhere and felt in your heart that it was where you were meant to be, then you know how I felt, and still feel, giving back to CCF. The Foundation helped my siblings and I foster academically and in the process, became a second family to the Caveras.
June 1, 2020
Joseph Cavera
High School Scholarship Recipient and YAA Board Member.
I was the first in my family to receive a scholarship from CCF in 2005 to attend high school, followed by my older brother Robert, who received a college scholarship in 2006, and our middle sister Veronica, who received hers in 2007 also for college. We still have our CCF award certificates hanging in our family home in New Jersey, and the scholarships we received have made remarkable differences in each of our lives.
I was the first in my family to receive a scholarship from CCF in 2005 to attend high school, followed by my older brother Robert, who received a college scholarship in 2006, and our middle sister Veronica, who received hers in 2007 also for college. We still have our CCF award certificates hanging in our family home in New Jersey, and the scholarships we received have made remarkable differences in each of our lives.
When I was entering high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to the public high school in my town, but when we looked at Bergen Catholic High School, my parents knew they would not be able to afford the full tuition. We attended one of the open houses, and one of the admissions officers mentioned the Columbus Citizens Foundation and how it helped young scholars. One afternoon, a few months before I would start high school, we received the call informing us I had been granted a scholarship, and my family was in disbelief and completely thrilled.
When I was entering high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to the public high school in my town, but when we looked at Bergen Catholic High School, my parents knew they would not be able to afford the full tuition. We attended one of the open houses, and one of the admissions officers mentioned the Columbus Citizens Foundation and how it helped young scholars. One afternoon, a few months before I would start high school, we received the call informing us I had been granted a scholarship, and my family was in disbelief and completely thrilled.
With my scholarship, I attended Bergen Catholic and learned incredible discipline in one of the top soccer programs in the state, in addition to getting a quality education, which prepared me for college. I was able to go to Stony Brook University, where I later graduated with honors with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and to Montclair State University, where I graduated with an M.S. in Sustainability Science. During my studies, I met an environmental project manager - and fellow Italian - by the name of Nicholas D’Ambrosio, who served as both an advisor and mentor, who years later would build up his own environmental firm, The Nomad Group, where I now work as a staff project scientist and assistant project manager.
With my scholarship, I attended Bergen Catholic and learned incredible discipline in one of the top soccer programs in the state, in addition to getting a quality education, which prepared me for college. I was able to go to Stony Brook University, where I later graduated with honors with a B.A. in Environmental Studies, and to Montclair State University, where I graduated with an M.S. in Sustainability Science. During my studies, I met an environmental project manager - and fellow Italian - by the name of Nicholas D’Ambrosio, who served as both an advisor and mentor, who years later would build up his own environmental firm, The Nomad Group, where I now work as a staff project scientist and assistant project manager.
Around the time I graduated from Montclair State in 2015, I was invited to attend the Primavera Social at the CCF Townhouse. There I met Lisa Tarantino, who would become the next CCF Young Adults Auxiliary president, and Anthony Zampolin, a fellow Bergen Catholic alumnus who would become the YAA president after Lisa. After speaking with them and other members, I excitedly joined the YAA, and was a highly active member. When the next elections were held, I made a bid for secretary. Lisa informed me shortly thereafter that I would be serving as the secretary of the YAA for the next two years.
I have been serving my fellow YAA Board members by facilitating communications, recruiting, evaluating applications of prospective members, maintaining our active roster, sending out announcements, and helping to plan and run our bi-annual galas and other events at CCF and beyond. Getting to meet new members and celebrate with fellow YAA Board members Anthony Zampolin, Mike Ippolito, and Steve Dardis at the end of the night have been among my happiest memories serving as the YAA Secretary.
If you have ever been somewhere and felt in your heart that it was where you were meant to be, then you know how I felt, and still feel, giving back to CCF. The Foundation helped my siblings and I foster academically and in the process, became a second family to the Caveras.
Around the time I graduated from Montclair State in 2015, I was invited to attend the Primavera Social at the CCF Townhouse. There I met Lisa Tarantino, who would become the next CCF Young Adults Auxiliary president, and Anthony Zampolin, a fellow Bergen Catholic alumnus who would become the YAA president after Lisa. After speaking with them and other members, I excitedly joined the YAA, and was a highly active member. When the next elections were held, I made a bid for secretary. Lisa informed me shortly thereafter that I would be serving as the secretary of the YAA for the next two years.
I have been serving my fellow YAA Board members by facilitating communications, recruiting, evaluating applications of prospective members, maintaining our active roster, sending out announcements, and helping to plan and run our bi-annual galas and other events at CCF and beyond. Getting to meet new members and celebrate with fellow YAA Board members Anthony Zampolin, Mike Ippolito, and Steve Dardis at the end of the night have been among my happiest memories serving as the YAA Secretary.
If you have ever been somewhere and felt in your heart that it was where you were meant to be, then you know how I felt, and still feel, giving back to CCF. The Foundation helped my siblings and I foster academically and in the process, became a second family to the Caveras.
June 1, 2020
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
Lauren Calderaro
A CCF Internship at Fiserv and College Scholarship to James Madison University Honors College helped Lauren Calderaro land a job at Goldman Sachs
From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
April 14, 2020
Luke Tortora
A recent UPenn graduate working in the healthcare field shares thoughts on his Italian heritage and the CCF Scholarship he received
I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (C’19) where I pursued a major in Health and Societies, minors in Healthcare Management and Neuroscience, and supplementary coursework through Wharton. Currently, I work as an Associate Consultant at Putnam Associates, a strategy consulting firm serving global biopharmaceutical clients, where I have to date worked on engagements supporting cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, along with the global commercialization of several new vaccines. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, playing the drums, and drawing portraits.
As I reflect on my time at Penn, I consider how the support I received from the Columbus Citizens Foundation enabled me to avail myself of so many of the opportunities I was provided. At Penn, I was fortunate enough to be involved in several pre-professional and community initiatives. On the pre-professional side, I served as a Project Leader on the Social Impact Consulting Group, a pro bono student-run consultancy. On the community side, I served in several leadership roles and advisory capacities at the Netter Center, Penn’s hub for civic engagement in West Philadelphia. I also was active as a senior staffer for Model United Nations and wrote for Wharton’s student policy blog. CCF’s backing gave me the freedom to explore my passions at Penn, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to do so.
CCF was also instrumental in placing me for an internship after my junior year. I spent that summer working with the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, a nonprofit serving peer nonprofits with consulting, placement, and business development services. I spent the summer conducting a market analysis to advise a large community center in Queens on the launch of an after-school program; in short, CCF found the perfect opportunity for me to combine my interests in consulting and civic engagement.
Underpinning my work is a sense of integrity and ethic, which I credit to my Italian heritage, and more specifically to my grandfather, who was (and is) my biggest role model. My grandfather lived the true American Dream: he emigrated from Sicily after the Second World War, withstood discrimination in the States despite having a university education, and rose from humble beginnings working in a laundromat to become the owner of several businesses and a respected leader in his Brooklyn community. In addition to instilling in me an understanding of Italianità, and a love for all things Italian and Sicilian, my grandfather’s struggle and success paved the path for me to pursue my passions. During late nights at school or work, or in times of uncertainty or adversity, the thought my grandfather’s resolve inspires me to soldier on.
My appreciation for the Columbus Citizens Foundation is partly due to how intimately they understand stories like mine and my grandfather’s; it is incredibly encouraging that they continue to support Italian diaspora like myself and seek to promote our rich culture and history. I continue to stay involved with the Foundation through the Young Adults Auxiliary and I look forward to many more years of engagement and community!
March 18, 2020
Francesca Santacroce
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
Lauren Calderaro
A CCF Internship at Fiserv and College Scholarship to James Madison University Honors College helped Lauren Calderaro land a job at Goldman Sachs
From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
April 14, 2020
Luke Tortora
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
Lauren Calderaro
Jamie Bianco
A CCF Dual HS and College CCF Scholarship Recipient in her Junior Year at Sacred Heart University Studying Nursing.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Healthcare has been the field of study I have been interested in my whole life as I have always wanted to help others. I am currently a junior at Sacred Heart University in their nursing program. I have been attending clinicals and have had hands-on opportunities, such as witnessing a cesarean section delivery, that is shaping what I wanted to do with my career. The bachelor’s in nursing program has taught me diligence, how to keep my head up, and never give up.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
Sacred Heart University has also given me the opportunity to get involved in an organization that is much bigger than myself. I had joined Kappa Delta during my freshman year and it opened so many doors. My sorority works very closely with a program called Prevent Child Abuse America which creates real change in the lives of children nationwide. We raised over $30,000 at our event called Shamrock the Runway last year which went towards supporting St. Joseph’s Parenting Center. We also hold many events with the local Girl Scouts to promote confidence and growth from a young age. Although these events are created for the Girl Scouts, being there and working with them truly shaped me as well. Kappa Delta is something that I did for fun here at Sacred Heart, but it grew to become a very meaningful experience.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
The most influential people in my life are my parents. My father has taught me how to be the strong, hardworking, and driven woman that I am today. When I was 11 years old, my mother passed away suddenly, and it was the hardest thing my family had to go through. My father had to take on the role of both parents for me and my siblings and has done the most amazing job. His strength inspires me every day to get through the challenges I face in my life. Although my mother was only with me for a short period of time, she taught me everything I needed to know to be the best version of myself. I am so grateful for how she shaped me into the woman I am today. I think about my mother all the time when I am in school because she had a major influence on who I am today and who I want to be in the future.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
My mother introduced me to the Columbus Citizens Foundation when I was in the fifth grade. Since then, the Foundation has changed my life in the most positive ways. When I received a scholarship for the first time, I was so honored because my hard work was getting recognized. I am so thankful for those involved in the Foundation for assisting me tremendously with my finances for my education. The Foundation enabled me to go to St. Edmund Preparatory High school where I received an amazing education and made the best memories. This led me to the nursing program at Sacred Heart University. Because of its exceptional program and all they had to offer, Sacred Heart University was my top choice and if it wasn’t for CCF, I wouldn’t be here. The Foundation guided me on the right path for school, my career, and my whole life. I do not know where I would be or if I would even be studying nursing if it wasn’t for CCF, and for that, I am so thankful.
May 1, 2020
A CCF Internship at Fiserv and College Scholarship to James Madison University Honors College helped Lauren Calderaro land a job at Goldman Sachs
From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
From a very young age, I connected closely with being an Italian American. My cherished and close relationship with my Nonno and Nonna taught me that communities and lives are built on the selflessness, generosity and connectivity of the people in them. Experiencing first-hand in my family how our traditions exemplify love, this has allowed me to see how these customs, passed onto me by my parents and grandparents, impact me on an everyday basis. I believe we have a moral responsibility to ourselves, our families, and our communities to uphold these traditions and pass them along to future generations.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
I first learned about the Columbus Citizens Foundation through a family friend; right away, I knew I wanted to get involved and join this group of individuals with similar upbringings, morals, and values. I applied for their college scholarship during my senior year of high school and feel so incredibly lucky to have received this award. I am currently a senior at James Madison University Honors College with a major in finance. After graduation, I will be working at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
In one word, the Columbus Citizens Foundation represents “opportunity” to me. In addition to the financial support the foundation has given me in the form of a scholarship, they kickstarted my involvement in the workforce. Through the CCF internship placement program, I interned at Fiserv (formally known as “First Data”) during the summer after my sophomore year of college. Without the Columbus Citizens Foundation, I would not have had this incredible opportunity.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
The impact that the Columbus Citizens Foundation has had on me over the last four years is quite difficult to even put into words. I am confident that I would not be where I am today or had the opportunities that I have been given without the generosity of the Foundation. I am honored to be associated with such an amazing group of people and I look forward to staying closely connected to the organization and most importantly, paying it forward to future CCF Scholars.
April 14, 2020
Luke Tortora
A recent UPenn graduate working in the healthcare field shares thoughts on his Italian heritage and the CCF Scholarship he received
I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (C’19) where I pursued a major in Health and Societies, minors in Healthcare Management and Neuroscience, and supplementary coursework through Wharton. Currently, I work as an Associate Consultant at Putnam Associates, a strategy consulting firm serving global biopharmaceutical clients, where I have to date worked on engagements supporting cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, along with the global commercialization of several new vaccines. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, playing the drums, and drawing portraits.
I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (C’19) where I pursued a major in Health and Societies, minors in Healthcare Management and Neuroscience, and supplementary coursework through Wharton. Currently, I work as an Associate Consultant at Putnam Associates, a strategy consulting firm serving global biopharmaceutical clients, where I have to date worked on engagements supporting cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, along with the global commercialization of several new vaccines. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, playing the drums, and drawing portraits.
As I reflect on my time at Penn, I consider how the support I received from the Columbus Citizens Foundation enabled me to avail myself of so many of the opportunities I was provided. At Penn, I was fortunate enough to be involved in several pre-professional and community initiatives. On the pre-professional side, I served as a Project Leader on the Social Impact Consulting Group, a pro bono student-run consultancy. On the community side, I served in several leadership roles and advisory capacities at the Netter Center, Penn’s hub for civic engagement in West Philadelphia. I also was active as a senior staffer for Model United Nations and wrote for Wharton’s student policy blog. CCF’s backing gave me the freedom to explore my passions at Penn, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to do so.
As I reflect on my time at Penn, I consider how the support I received from the Columbus Citizens Foundation enabled me to avail myself of so many of the opportunities I was provided. At Penn, I was fortunate enough to be involved in several pre-professional and community initiatives. On the pre-professional side, I served as a Project Leader on the Social Impact Consulting Group, a pro bono student-run consultancy. On the community side, I served in several leadership roles and advisory capacities at the Netter Center, Penn’s hub for civic engagement in West Philadelphia. I also was active as a senior staffer for Model United Nations and wrote for Wharton’s student policy blog. CCF’s backing gave me the freedom to explore my passions at Penn, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to do so.
CCF was also instrumental in placing me for an internship after my junior year. I spent that summer working with the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, a nonprofit serving peer nonprofits with consulting, placement, and business development services. I spent the summer conducting a market analysis to advise a large community center in Queens on the launch of an after-school program; in short, CCF found the perfect opportunity for me to combine my interests in consulting and civic engagement.
CCF was also instrumental in placing me for an internship after my junior year. I spent that summer working with the Support Center for Nonprofit Management, a nonprofit serving peer nonprofits with consulting, placement, and business development services. I spent the summer conducting a market analysis to advise a large community center in Queens on the launch of an after-school program; in short, CCF found the perfect opportunity for me to combine my interests in consulting and civic engagement.
Underpinning my work is a sense of integrity and ethic, which I credit to my Italian heritage, and more specifically to my grandfather, who was (and is) my biggest role model. My grandfather lived the true American Dream: he emigrated from Sicily after the Second World War, withstood discrimination in the States despite having a university education, and rose from humble beginnings working in a laundromat to become the owner of several businesses and a respected leader in his Brooklyn community. In addition to instilling in me an understanding of Italianità, and a love for all things Italian and Sicilian, my grandfather’s struggle and success paved the path for me to pursue my passions. During late nights at school or work, or in times of uncertainty or adversity, the thought my grandfather’s resolve inspires me to soldier on.
My appreciation for the Columbus Citizens Foundation is partly due to how intimately they understand stories like mine and my grandfather’s; it is incredibly encouraging that they continue to support Italian diaspora like myself and seek to promote our rich culture and history. I continue to stay involved with the Foundation through the Young Adults Auxiliary and I look forward to many more years of engagement and community!
Underpinning my work is a sense of integrity and ethic, which I credit to my Italian heritage, and more specifically to my grandfather, who was (and is) my biggest role model. My grandfather lived the true American Dream: he emigrated from Sicily after the Second World War, withstood discrimination in the States despite having a university education, and rose from humble beginnings working in a laundromat to become the owner of several businesses and a respected leader in his Brooklyn community. In addition to instilling in me an understanding of Italianità, and a love for all things Italian and Sicilian, my grandfather’s struggle and success paved the path for me to pursue my passions. During late nights at school or work, or in times of uncertainty or adversity, the thought my grandfather’s resolve inspires me to soldier on.
My appreciation for the Columbus Citizens Foundation is partly due to how intimately they understand stories like mine and my grandfather’s; it is incredibly encouraging that they continue to support Italian diaspora like myself and seek to promote our rich culture and history. I continue to stay involved with the Foundation through the Young Adults Auxiliary and I look forward to many more years of engagement and community!
March 18, 2020
Francesca Santacroce
A first-generation college graduate reflects on the impact of her
CCF Scholarship and Internship Program
My interest in changing peoples’ lives has heavily influenced my goals, ambitions, and plans to pursue a medical degree after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomolecular Science with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, at New York University Tandon School of Engineering. My experiences as a woman in a STEM field and a first-generation college student have greatly impacted my personal and professional goals. While at NYU, I was fortunate enough to participate in numerous educational projects that taught me professionalism and gave me a solid foundation in applied sciences, granted through my strong Italian work ethic, NYU faculty, and the Columbus Citizens Foundation.
As a teaching assistant at NYU, I have educated and mentored students from all walks of life with diverse interests. I managed a sector of biomolecular science courses, leading a staff of ten graduate students to efficiently carry out laboratory experiments and fairly grade student reports. I was recommended to be lead researcher after completing my freshman year for a project called “The Staff of Gandalf,” where ultrasound and infrared sensors are incorporated into a basic white cane to safely and efficiently help the blind community. As an avid yoga practitioner and instructor, I designed and co-founded a yoga and physiology course and scientific research conference at NYU to educate the community about the data that supports biological, psychological, and physiological benefits of yoga.
My interest in changing peoples’ lives has heavily influenced my goals, ambitions, and plans to pursue a medical degree after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomolecular Science with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, at New York University Tandon School of Engineering. My experiences as a woman in a STEM field and a first-generation college student have greatly impacted my personal and professional goals. While at NYU, I was fortunate enough to participate in numerous educational projects that taught me professionalism and gave me a solid foundation in applied sciences, granted through my strong Italian work ethic, NYU faculty, and the Columbus Citizens Foundation.
As a teaching assistant at NYU, I have educated and mentored students from all walks of life with diverse interests. I managed a sector of biomolecular science courses, leading a staff of ten graduate students to efficiently carry out laboratory experiments and fairly grade student reports. I was recommended to be lead researcher after completing my freshman year for a project called “The Staff of Gandalf,” where ultrasound and infrared sensors are incorporated into a basic white cane to safely and efficiently help the blind community. As an avid yoga practitioner and instructor, I designed and co-founded a yoga and physiology course and scientific research conference at NYU to educate the community about the data that supports biological, psychological, and physiological benefits of yoga.
From the start of my college career, the Columbus Citizens Foundation has played a significant role in the professional opportunities I have obtained in my undergraduate and graduate career. I was fortunate enough to become a CCF College Scholarship recipient and when CCF began their internship program, I was offered an opportunity at Weill Cornell Medical College in their ophthalmology department. Then I started an internship with Dr. Joseph Lombardi. There, I learned the importance of patient care, compassionate bedside manner, and clinical procedures. I am now an Assistant Supervisor for Edison Spine Center with Dr. Lombardi at Edison Metuchen Orthopedic Group. I am applying to medical school for the 2021 school year and I aspire to open my own practice in the future.
From the start of my college career, the Columbus Citizens Foundation has played a significant role in the professional opportunities I have obtained in my undergraduate and graduate career. I was fortunate enough to become a CCF College Scholarship recipient and when CCF began their internship program, I was offered an opportunity at Weill Cornell Medical College in their ophthalmology department. Then I started an internship with Dr. Joseph Lombardi. There, I learned the importance of patient care, compassionate bedside manner, and clinical procedures. I am now an Assistant Supervisor for Edison Spine Center with Dr. Lombardi at Edison Metuchen Orthopedic Group. I am applying to medical school for the 2021 school year and I aspire to open my own practice in the future.
My strongest influences in life have been the women in my family. My grandmothers, both immigrants from Italy, and my mother are the reasons that I am not only the first woman, but the first person to graduate from university in my family. My mother also suffers from Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, a rare genetic disorder that results in end-stage renal failure. Her strength and determination to wait on the long and frustrating organ donation list inspires me to be patient and unwavering throughout medical school and in my career as a physician. Outside of work and academics, I volunteer as a crisis intervention counselor for RAINN, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, helping survivors and loved ones of those who have been affected by sexual violence.
My strongest influences in life have been the women in my family. My grandmothers, both immigrants from Italy, and my mother are the reasons that I am not only the first woman, but the first person to graduate from university in my family. My mother also suffers from Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, a rare genetic disorder that results in end-stage renal failure. Her strength and determination to wait on the long and frustrating organ donation list inspires me to be patient and unwavering throughout medical school and in my career as a physician. Outside of work and academics, I volunteer as a crisis intervention counselor for RAINN, the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, helping survivors and loved ones of those who have been affected by sexual violence.
I am so honored to be a member of the Columbus Citizens Foundation, not only as a scholarship and internship recipient, but also as a Young Adults Auxiliary member. It is the young people who truly make changes and a difference in the world, and we must support them to obtain educations and solid foundations. Thank you to the Columbus Citizens Foundation, from the bottom of my heart, for the morals by which they stand, and for what they do for young professionals such as myself.
I am so honored to be a member of the Columbus Citizens Foundation, not only as a scholarship and internship recipient, but also as a Young Adults Auxiliary member. It is the young people who truly make changes and a difference in the world, and we must support them to obtain educations and solid foundations. Thank you to the Columbus Citizens Foundation, from the bottom of my heart, for the morals by which they stand, and for what they do for young professionals such as myself.
February 10, 2020