Why Supporting the Matters

The Torch Fund is Chaminade’s program of unrestricted annual giving. Giving to the Torch Fund is vital to sustaining our educational missionfor both today's students and future generations. Tuition assistance provided this school year to 1,700 students

14,000 Flyers $50 Million $2,340

The number of Flyers who received Torch support since 1987

The amount of tuition support distributed over the last 36 fiscal years

Paying It Forward Through Planned Giving

Executive Director of Advancement Chris Hanley '80 speaks with Frank Liantonio '66, executive vice president at Cushman & Wakefield, to discuss his recent funding of the Marion & Grace Liantonio Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Q- Frank, what motivated you to fund a scholarship at Chaminade?

A- As you may know, I'm a board member of Tomorrow's Hope Foundation and a big believer in the importance of providing educational opportunities for the underserved communities of Long Island. Through financial support the foundation gives almost 2,000 scholarships annually so that deserving children can attend and afford Catholic elementary school each school year. Unfortunately, many don't continue their Catholic education in high school, and that needs to change. After speaking with Bro. Thomas about Chaminade's new initiative, Access for All, he suggested that I consider underwriting a need-based scholarship.

Q- How did you decide to establish the scholarship in memory of your mother and Aunt Grace?

A- There's a great story behind that, and it truly guided my support for the scholarship. Several years after I graduated from Chaminade, in the early 1970s, my mother and aunt started working as staff members in the cafeteria at Chaminade. Aunt Grace and my mom were like sisters, and they both loved being around the students and took great pleasure in watching them grow and mature over their four years. Mom and Grace both worked in those roles for almost 30 years, and after my mother passed away a few years back, I couldn't think of a better way to honor their dedication and service to Chaminade.

Q- How do you envision this scholarship benefiting students and supporting their educational journey?

A- A Chaminade education can change the trajectory of a young man's life, and although my investment will not cover full tuition, I'm sure for some families this scholarship might make the difference in their son's ability to attend. I'd love to see if we could also create a more solid path for the Tomorrow's Hope recipients to continue their Catholic education at Chaminade.

Q- How important is the faith formation aspect of a Chaminade education?

A- It's very important that we continue to build on the foundation that is provided in the home and at the Catholic grammar schools in the area. It's a critical component in providing the ethical roots and moral compass that will guide these young men through the rest of their lives. It remains a very critical part of my life some 57 years after my high school graduation.

Q- What is your fondest memory of Chaminade?

A- There are many, and I can honestly say that for those that want to be there, you can create many great memories. However, playing in a band called T.S. and the Eliots with my classmate and piano player Roy Clark '66 at a sock hop in the gym was the best.

Q- Frank, what would you suggest to someone considering making a gift to Chaminade?

A- I started with a small gift when the Torch Fund started in 1987 and have tried to support the annual fund every year. The scholarship will combine both a pledged and planned gift. Remember what somebody has done for you, and when you're in a position to help, pay it forward.

For more information about planned giving and the 1930 Legacy Society, please contact Chris Hanley ’80 at (516) 742-5555 ext. 509 or email chanley@chaminade-hs.org.