Fund Type: Scholarship Funds
Fund Category: Education
This scholarship was created to honor the memory and legacy of Joseph Michael Valentino who passed unexpectedly in February 2020 by awarding two $500 scholarships in his name annually to two like-minded individual student-athletes who embody a devotion to character and athletic drive (One Male/Female). As an Alumni of Clarkstown High School South, and part of the first South High School Graduating Class in 1978, Joe performed at a high level athletically, having been recognized with many accolades across his High School and College career.
Joe began his athletic pursuits as a young boy, here in Rockland, playing baseball in the little league program, and even winning the TOCs. From there he continued his love of competing in sports and focused on Football and Track & Field. Football: All-State 1st Team, Junior/Senior Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year, Tri-Captain – Sr. Year, Track & Field: Co-Captain indoor/outdoor track. Inducted into the inaugural CHSS Hall of Fame – 2001.
Joe’s athletic ability earned him full-rides to more than 200 colleges – Joe would attend the University of Delaware where he was a Varsity Defensive Line Starter his entire career and was a part of the team that won NCAA Division II National Champions. After graduating from college, he had the opportunity to try out for the NFL.
Joe’s love of competing led him to coach South Football and girls’ softball with WNLL.
In order to be considered for this scholarship, students must be a high school senior at Clarkstown South High School, a student athlete, attending a 2 or 4 year college or vocational school and have a minimum GPA of 80.