Club

Sons scholarship recipient discusses its impact while pursuing education, athletics at Lehigh University

LOCK HAVEN -- The Giosue Carducci Lodge of the Sons and Daughters of Italy, Lock Haven, has continuously provided local graduates assistance in their continued education through a number of scholarships over the years.

Recently, those individuals -- both current college students and graduates -- have chosen to share the impact the Sons' scholarship program had on them.

Caden Rogers, grandson of Sons and Daughters of Italy Board President Dan Vilello, is a member of the club and currently attends Lehigh University.

Rogers said the opportunity to apply for the academic scholarship through the Sons was an experience that "challenged me to reflect on what it truly means to be an Italian American, and to consider the lineage of all those who came before me."

He said he is grateful to have been selected for the scholarship, which allowed him to pursue both academics and athletics at Lehigh University.

"While wrestling for Lehigh, I have the opportunity to represent the Sons and Daughters of Italy on a national stage. Beyond the mat, I study in finance and real estate, with a plan on earning a master's degree in the future," Rogers said.

Rogers thanked the Sons and Daughters of Italy who made the scholarship possible.

"Your generosity has done more than ease the financial burden of college, it has helped me to pursue my athletic and academic goals. Because of your support, I am able to compete at the highest level, represent our community with pride and work toward a future I am truly passionate about," he said. "It is an honor to carry the Sons and Daughters of Italy with me on this journey, and I hope to one day give back to this organization the same way you have given to me."