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A Two-Generation Service Success Story
Members of the Guarnuccio family are shown with University of Scranton President Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J. during 2022-23 Parents Weekend events. From left, are Hanna ‘22, Bridgid ’27, Joanne, Keith ’90, and Aidan ’23.
Since 1988, members of the Guarnuccio family have been putting a priority on volunteerism with The University of Scranton and in the surrounding community.
At The University of Scranton, Pat Vaccaro and Keith Guarnuccio ’90 have proven true the axiom that kindness multiplies with a ripple effect.
In the late 1980s, a chance “to work with college students and help them get involved in the Scranton community” drew Vaccaro to a career on campus. Early on, she developed Collegiate Volunteers, the precursor of today’s Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ). As one of that office’s original volunteers, Guarnuccio helped initiate a two-generation service success story.
“During sophomore year, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a number of events and programs run by Collegiate Volunteers. Then I met Pat,” he said of the mentor who introduced him to the joy that only community involvement can provide.
“I really enjoyed the work we did with local special needs children.”
As a University student, Keith Guarnuccio volunteered with Collegiate Volunteers. He is shown in 1988, during his junior year at Scranton. Of his work study service during that era, Keith said, “I really enjoyed the work we did with local special needs children.”
Four decades later, Vaccaro serves as Director of the Center for Service and Social Justice, and Guarnuccio has welcomed four family members into the Scranton fold, including his wife Joanne, and three of their four children. Currently Keith and Joanne serve as Chairs of the University’s Parents Executive Council.
“I remember Pat being so dedicated and spirited. She was always looking for ways for the office to contribute to the community. I really enjoyed my involvement, and it makes us proud that Hanna, Aidan and Bridgid have all been able to work alongside Pat during their time at Scranton,” said Keith.
Parents Executive Council provided us with the opportunity to be involved with the University and in the lives of our children while they are at school without interfering with their experiences on campus. We can be involved and give back to a place that has given so much to our family.
-Joanne Guarnuccio
