Lock Haven University establishes John F. Curcio Scholarship

RecordStaffNovember 23, 2020Last Updated: November 23, 2020

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Congressman Fred Keller, left, listened as World War II hero John Curcio shared stories from his time in service.

LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – Lock Haven University has announced the establishment of the John F. Curcio Scholarship. The new scholarship will be awarded annually to an LHU student who is ex-military or current military.

The scholarship is named in honor of John F. Curcio, of North Bend. Staff Sergeant Curcio served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He flew 35 combat missions over Europe as a tail gunner in B24 bombers. At age 95, he continues to inspire friends and neighbors with his energy and positive attitude.

The idea for the scholarship began as an informal conversation among some of Curcio’s friends. Jim Russo, of M&R Contracting, led the effort with assistance from retired LHU professors, Lenny Long and Dave Bower; Joby Topper, LHU library director; and former LHU trustee, Thomas “Doc” Sweitzer. All agreed that the scholarship would be a fitting tribute to a man like Curcio, a WW2 veteran of the Greatest Generation.

“Many student-veterans get financial assistance from the G.I. Bill, like I did 30 years ago,” Topper said. “But even with the G.I. Bill, I had to cover some major expenses on my own. The Curcio Scholarship will help fill the gaps and enable these veterans to stay in school.”

Also helping to create the scholarship from LHU, were Jeff Ross, major gift officer and Liza Kopp, assistant director of financial aid.

The scholarship recipient will be selected each year by the vice president of enrollment management and student affairs in direct consultation with the John F. Curcio Scholarship Committee. The recipient must be in good academic standing and must demonstrate financial need. Preference will be given to residents of Clinton County.

The John F. Curcio Committee and other friends of Curcio will contribute funds to the scholarship until it reaches a $10,000 endowment, with the goal of increasing this endowment over time. The local Sons of Italy, Carducci Lodge No. 146, recently made a donation to the scholarship.

To make a donation or for questions about the scholarship, contact Topper at 570-484-2465 or email jtopper@lockhaven.edu.