THE IONA COMMUNITY CAME TOGETHER at the 2018 Iona College Trustees Scholarship Award Gala to raise more than $1 million for student scholarships. The gala was held on April 13 at the elegant Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
The Board of Trustees presented the Iona College 2018 Legacy Award, which is bestowed on individuals in recognition of their lifetime achievements, to Armando C. Rodriguez Jr. ’86, president & CEO of A&A Maintenance Enterprise; and to Joseph A. Armentano ’88MBA, CEO of Paraco Gas Corporation.
Rodriguez credited his family, especially his father, who founded A&A Maintenance Enterprise in 1973, for his success. “Family was essential,” he said, “and education was the key to a brighter future.”
Armentano prides himself “in giving back to the communities Paraco serves.” He has witnessed decades of growth of his family business that was begun by his father in 1968. He is currently writing a book about the legacy of his father.
Both men have been staunch supporters of Iona and given generously to their communities.
The Blessed Edmund Rice Humanitarian Award, which is named to honor the founder of the Congregation of Christian Brothers and recognizes those who, by their activities and service to others, have reinforced Iona’s identity, was presented to David A. Pope ’07H and the Generoso Pope Foundation. Pope has devoted much of his time and energy fulfilling the dream of his great-grandfather, an Italian immigrant who established the foundation in 1947, by celebrating the Italian culture through educational programs, exhibits and events.
More than 500 guests, including 75 Iona students who were sponsored by trustees, enjoyed dining, dancing and celebrating the outstanding alumni.
