15 When Charles “Chuck” Pecoraro ‘93 and Joseph Pecoraro ‘90 established the Domenico and Nancy Pecoraro Scholarship Fund, they weren’t simply creating a scholarship… they were honoring a lifetime of sacrifice. Named for their parents, Domenico and Nancy Pecoraro, the fund will provide financial assistance to an incoming Aquinas freshman facing financial need, helping students overcome obstacles and pursue the opportunities an Aquinas education can provide. For the Pecoraro brothers, the scholarship is deeply personal. “My mom and dad were two of the hardest-working, resilient, family- and faith-based people throughout their lives,” Chuck shared. “They instilled the notion that consistent effort with high morals will lead to successful and positive outcomes.” Domenico immigrated to the United States from Italy and worked two jobs to support his family. Nancy cared for their children and grandmother while managing the household with remarkable resourcefulness. Together, they created a home rooted in faith, perseverance, and unconditional love. Though financial resources were limited, the Pecoraros never viewed themselves as lacking. “We might not have had a lot of stuff, but we had more love than others,” Chuck reflected. That love, and their parents’ belief in the value of education, led Chuck and Joe to Aquinas. “Education is powerful and provides options,” Chuck said. “My parents found a way to make Aquinas possible because of its reputation for academic excellence, its balanced approach to learning, and its vibrant community.” The brothers acknowledge that attending Aquinas came with challenges. Coming from a family of modest means, they were often reminded that their circumstances differed from those of some of their classmates. Rather than discouraging them, those experiences strengthened their character and determination. “It galvanized us to be strong in conviction, lead with kindness and empathy, and be resolute in setting high standards for ourselves,” Chuck said. “Achievement knows nothing about economic history.” The loss of their father inspired the brothers to think about how they could honor both parents in a meaningful and lasting way. The answer was creating opportunities for future students. Inspired by the sacrifices their parents made to provide them with an Aquinas education, Chuck and Joe established the scholarship to help ease the financial burden for other deserving families so their children can experience the same opportunities they were given. The scholarship serves as a tribute to the countless sacrifices Domenico and Nancy made, and as a message to students who may be facing challenges of their own. While Domenico’s legacy lives on through the values he instilled in his family, Nancy recently celebrated her 94th birthday this summer and continues to inspire those around her. “I would love for city kids and first-generation students to know that the American Dream is achievable,” Joe said. “Your zip code doesn’t determine your trajectory. Consistent effort will lead to consistent success.” For Joe, giving back is also a way of expressing gratitude. “Aquinas was a place I truly enjoyed, and I’m so appreciative that our parents made it possible for us to attend,” he said. “This scholarship is our way of thanking them while helping another family create opportunities for their child.” As Aquinas celebrates the connections that unite generations of Li’l Irish, the Domenico and Nancy Pecoraro Scholarship Fund stands as a powerful reminder that one family’s sacrifices can create opportunities for generations to come. Through this gift, the values Domenico and Nancy instilled in their sons – faith, perseverance, hard work, and compassion – will continue to shape the lives of future Aquinas students. We are grateful to Chuck and Joe for their generosity and commitment to helping future Li’l Irish students succeed. As Joe reflected, “You shouldn’t forget the people or institutions that helped shape who you are today. Things do not occur by happenstance, and Aquinas was a big reason we’re able to give back now.” A FUTURE OF OPPORTUNITY The Domenico and Nancy Pecoraro Scholarship Fund Creating Connections Through Scholarships Every scholarship begins with a story and creates opportunities for the next generation. Through the generosity of alumni and friends like the Pecoraro brothers, Aquinas students are able to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. Interested in creating a lasting impact? Contact Mr. Jay Polston ‘90, Associate Director of Major Gifts & Planned Giving, at jpolston@aquinasinstitute.com or (585) 254-2020 x1061 to learn more. A portrait of Domenico and Nancy Pecoraro on their wedding day Domenico, Joe ‘90, and Chuck ‘93 with Chuck’s sons (Dom and Gabe)
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