The passing on of pride in one’s alma mater is evident when children of alumni choose to attend YSU as their parents did. The recipients of the Alumni Legacy Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year demonstrate that pride through their hard work and commitment to excellence. Each student will receive a $1000 scholarship. The recipients are: Emily Wilaj, daughter of Jody Wilaj ‘94 ; Gina Ricciardi, daughter of Judy ‘89 and Mario Riccardi ’90; Samantha Joki, daughter of Joshua Joki ’03 ; Gianna Pinciaro, daughter of Malana Rafoth Pinciaro ‘00 and Joesph Pinciaro Jr. ‘99 ; and Gabriella Howe, daughter of Kimberly Palazzo Howe ’87 and Jeffery Howe ‘90.
Emily Wilaj is in her second year at YSU and is pursuing a degree in sports journalism. Her love for YSU comes from her mother who inspired her to continue her education. She plans to pursue a career in marketing and public relations after graduation.
Gina Ricciardi is studying to become a physical therapist and was recently accepted into YSU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She comes from a legacy of Penguin pride, having parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins all graduating from YSU.
Samantha Joki is following in the steps of her father, Joshua, who passed when she was only 10 years old. Through her involvement with Greek life on campus, she has been able to stay connected with her father’s alma mater and create her own memories during her time at YSU.
Gianna Pinciaro is a nursing student and is following the legacy of her parents who both graduated from YSU. She is also involved in many activities through the Sokolov Honors College and volunteers both on campus and in the community. After graduation, Gianna plans to attend graduate school to earn a doctorate in nursing anesthesia.
Gabriella Howe is a biology major and honors student in the Sokolov Honors College. She is planning to attend medical school after her time at YSU. She comes from a legacy of both parents who are alumni of YSU and attends YSU with her 2 siblings. Gabriella is involved in many student organizations and active in Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority.
Youngstown State University has a rich tradition of family attendance and graduation. The legacy of a child following in the footsteps of a parent/guardian toward attaining a degree from the same alma mater is indeed a cherished tradition. The YSU Office of Alumni Engagement is committed to fostering relationships between graduates and YSU and is proud to offer five $1000 Legacy Scholarships to children of YSU alumni.
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