Benefit set to sponsor scholarship in memory of Robert E. Valenti
by RIKKI CASON Reporter

Valenti

A benefit will be held on Friday, May 16, in memory of Robert E. Valenti, who died suddenly of a brain aneurysm at the age of 27.

But the event, set for 5 to 11 p.m. in the grove at the George F. Lamm Post, 962 Wehrle Drive, Williamsville, will also raise money for a scholarship fund at the University at Buffalo.

This year will mark the third annual benefit, and to date, Valenti's family and friends have raised $20,000 toward their goal of $50,000 for the self-sustaining scholarship fund.

"In order to self-sustain, we have to raise $50,000," said Valenti's mother, Marsha. "Once we raise that, it sustains itself, UB draws interest and awards a scholarship. We have a ways to go, but we'll keep on going 'til we do it."

Robert Valenti was a lifelong resident of Cheektowaga. He graduated from Maryvale High School in 1996 and attended the University at Buffalo, where he received his bachelor's degree in psychology, graduating magna cum laude.

Valenti then went on to receive his master's degree in organizational psychology from Columbia University.

He returned to Buffalo after graduation and was attending the University at Buffalo, where he was pursuing his doctorate in educational leadership and policy.

When thinking of her son, Marsha Valenti will always remember his passion for learning.

"He was exceptionally smart," she said. "Well-versed on anything. You could have a conversation with him on anything. So when I think of him, more than anything, I think of his learning and passing it on to other people. This scholarship will be a tribute to him."

She remembers how her son tutored a friend who later died from cancer so that he could help the friend get through his classes.

"Robert was a true scholar," his mother said. "He loved to read, study, coach, mentor and be mentored."

Valenti describes her son as extremely intelligent and an incredibly diligent student.

"His greatest attribute was his wit and his ability to encourage other students to pursue their dreams," she said. "He touched the lives of many and is greatly missed by all who knew him."

According to Valenti, the benefit will affect the lives of many students for years to come.

"He loved to learn and loved to help people," his mother said.

Though working hard and determined to see the scholarship fund reach its $50,000 goal, she credits the help of her son's friends and fiancee.

"My son had some very wonderful friends," she said. "They are helping me be able to do this. They're out there looking for donations, food donations and businesses. I couldn't do this by myself."

Tickets will be $25 and can be purchased at the door or by calling Valenti.

Complimentary beer and pop will be provided, along with a cash bar. Dinner will be included in the price, and a 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction will be held. Prizes include gift certificates to restaurants, the zoo, art park, Fort Niagara and other prizes that are still being contributed.

Monetary donations may be sent directly to the State University of New York at Buffalo, Robert E. Valenti Scholarship Foundation. P.O. Box 900, Buffalo, NY 14226.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Marsha Valenti at 631-5921 or visit www. robertevalenti. org.