Philanthropists of the Year Believe in Paying it Forward

California University President Dr. Angelo Armenti spent his life in debt.  In debt to his immigrant parents, who taught him the value of music and education. In debt to Sister Maria, who taught him to enjoy math, which led to his career as a physicist. Payback?  They deserved it. But it was too late, so instead of paying them back, he paid it forward by establishing scholarships in their names, which would allow the next generation a chance at an education.

He married a women with an identical outlook.  Barbara Armenti felt a similar debt to her coal-mining family, so the Armentis also set up a scholarship in her parents’ name.

But it’s not donating money that makes them philanthropists. 

“The word ‘philanthropy” means ‘love of humanity.’” he says.  “We teach our students the duties and responsibilities that come from being part of a group. They can give any of the three T’s: time, talent, or treasure.”

Washington attorney and WCCF Trustee Charles Keller, who nominated the Armenti’s as Philanthropists of the Year, says Dr. Armenti has “Developed, promoted and supported a contagious atmosphere of philanthropy” on the Cal U campus.Since the university is partially funded by the taxpayers, Dr. Armenti feels that, while the students can’t pay their benefactors back directly, they must find ways of paying it forward.

He recently addressed 1,500 incoming students, gave each an envelope, and asked them to place a dollar in it. The envelopes were collected, one name was drawn and that student received a $1,500 scholarship.  The students saw how one life was affected by many small gifts.

Dr. Armenti’s greatest honor may be having his name on a tee-shirt. One student created “Armenti’s Army” tee-shirts, sold them on campus and donated the money to three charities. “It proves they get it,” Dr. Armenti says. “I am so proud of them!”

Dr. Armenti is quick to dispel the stereotype of a philanthropist as a wealthy person who donates millions of dollars, preferring to focus on the three T’s, as does his wife, Barbara. Barbara Armenti is a role model for giving time and talents. She chairs the Mon Valley United Way campaign, volunteers with the Heart Association, and raises funds for local organizations. “She’s busier than I am!” her husband chuckles. “If you need to raise money, just call Barbara!”  “I love being involved,” she says. “It has afforded me the opportunity to meet wonderful people.”

 They both feel humbled by this recognition.

“Barbara and I derive great satisfaction and pleasure to help the way we were helped.  We enjoy seeing young people achieve their goals and encourage them to pay it forward.”

“Dr. Armenti is inspiring a new generation to philanthropy,” says Keller. “He will leave a mark for generations to come.” WCCF will establish “The Dr. Angelo & Barbara Armenti / CAL U Scholarship Fund”.

“We are honored to be among the wonderful people who have received this award in the past,” says Barbara Armenti. “I never imagined we would be in that company,”