AQ to the OR From Alum to Mentor, 26 AQUINAS LANDMARK | WINTER 2026 alumni events news For Dr. Vito Quatela ’71, medicine has never just been about science—it’s been about service. As the founder of the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery in Rochester and the internationally recognized pioneer of the deep plane facelift, Dr. Quatela has dedicated his career to transforming lives. But perhaps equally inspiring is the way he continues to give back to the Aquinas community and the heart of the school: our students. This past year, that spirit of giving came full circle when Dr. Quatela opened the doors of his world-class surgical practice to junior Angelina Masci ’27, giving her the rare opportunity to shadow him in the operating room. For Angelina, who has long dreamed of becoming a plastic surgeon, it was an unforgettable experience that brought her aspirations into sharp focus. “The opportunity to shadow Dr. Quatela came about with the help of Mr. Jay Polston ’90 and Mr. Ray Manioci ‘08,” Angelina shared. “I always wanted to shadow a plastic surgeon, and they helped connect me with Dr. Quatela. I was thrilled—knowing how incredible he is, I felt truly excited and grateful for this opportunity.” From the moment she arrived at the Quatela Center, Angelina was immersed in the rhythm of a busy surgical day. She observed a hair transplant procedure and later sat in on a seven-hour facelift— learning, asking questions, and witnessing the meticulous artistry of facial surgery up close. “Watching Dr. Quatela operate for that long was amazing,” Angelina said. “He explained every question I had, and I learned so much. Seeing how focused and passionate he was con rmed that this is something I would love to do in my future.” For Dr. Quatela, mentoring students like Angelina is deeply ful lling and an extension of the same calling that led him to medicine. “Nothing has given me more pleasure than teaching,” he said. “Turning a high school student onto a career in medicine is something I’ve done many times, and it gives me great joy. It’s extremely rewarding to see eyes light up when they experience the same enthusiasm toward the study of medicine.” Dr. Quatela credits much of his foundation to his own years at Aquinas. “Aquinas taught me the value of hard work and discipline,” he re ected. “It also taught me the importance of living a Christian life, which I’ve expressed through the HUGS Foundation.” Founded in 2003, the HUGS (Helping Us Give Smiles) Foundation provides free surgeries to children and adults su ering from congenital facial deformities. With over 50 missions completed in six countries—including Guatemala, Vietnam, Peru, and Ecuador—the foundation’s impact is immeasurable. “Our goal is to help transform lives so that each child can lead a productive and ful lling life,” said Dr. Quatela. For Angelina, this experience not only con rmed her career ambitions but deepened her appreciation for the Aquinas community. “It feels so meaningful to be supported by an Aquinas alumnus,” she said. “There’s a deep sense of connection knowing that Dr. Quatela, who walked these same halls, continues to value our tradition of excellence and invests in the next generation. It’s a reminder that Aquinas is a true family.” This is one of those hidden stories—the kind that doesn’t always make headlines, but speaks volumes about the di erence an Aquinas education makes. It’s a story about mentorship, faith, and paying it forward. And in the operating room, beneath the bright surgical lights, the bond between past and present. Q&A with Angelina Masci ’27 Q: What was your initial reaction when you were invited to sit in on surgeries? A: Pure excitement! I was so honored to have this opportunity and to be able to watch one of the best plastic surgeons in the country at work. It was such an honor. Q: How has this experience influenced your thoughts about a future in the medical field? A: Seeing Dr. Quatela at work, being involved at his practice, and learning about his HUGS Foundation, definitely inspired me more. Without having this experience, I may not have known if I truly loved the idea of being a plastic surgeon. This experience confirmed that pursuing a career in plastic surgery is something I truly want to do. Q: Would you encourage other students to seek similar experiences? A: This was such a special opportunity for me, and I would love for other students to be able to experience similar opportunities as well. There are so many successful, distinguished alumni that could share their talents and experiences. Help make a difference! Whether volunteering for an event, mentoring students, or sharing your career experiences, your involvement strengthens our community and supports the next generation of leaders. To get involved, contact Mr. Joby Knapp, Executive Director of Advancement, at (585) 254-2020 x1014 or jknapp@aquinasinstitute.com.
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