Lisa (Tomasulo) Capasso '86, '90 recalls how delighted and honored she felt in 1984 to receive JWU's financial assistance. Now an alumna, she is equally delighted to donate $50,000 to support scholarships. Recipients of the Lisa Tomasulo-Capasso Family Endowed Scholarship are juniors or seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA who have demonstrated financial need.
Capasso holds multiple degrees from JWU's Providence Campus: an associate in Culinary Arts (1984); a bachelor's in Food Management (1986); and an associate in Accounting (1990). Her education has been "transformational." She notes that her degree has increased in value as Johnson & Wales' reputation has grown worldwide.
She recalls competing with other students for a position as a teaching assistant. During her last two years of study, she was an assistant instructor and on weekends worked at JWU hotels/restaurants. In return for her duties as a teaching assistant, she received full tuition, housing on campus, and a stipend. "I was an excellent first-generation student, but I needed financial support to stay enrolled," she says. "I was proud to be a teaching assistant and fellow and then a dining room instructor."
As a member of the Alumni Reunion Committee, Capasso returns to campus for Homecoming Weekend and attends Boston-area seminars near her home in Newton, Massachusetts. "Affinity groups are a great way to network with fellow alumni who understand the hectic culinary lifestyle," she says. "We also make connections that sometimes lead to jobs."
She was inspired to give back when Major Gifts Officer Steve Shipley '85, '06 M.A.T. invited her to lunch on campus with students. The atmosphere was welcoming and energizing, and the students were passionate about their studies. She noted that the university has grown in size and reputation, but the need for financial support has also grown.
Advancement and University Relations welcomes hearing from alumni like Lisa Capasso who might consider supporting students. Contact us to learn more about establishing a named scholarship or make a donation online today.
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