Concetta (Connie) Tuori lived a very long and interesting life, one atypical of women during her time. Born in 1927 on Syracuse’s North side, she grew up during the Depression with her immigrant parents instilling in her a strong commitment to family, an unending work ethic, and a deep appreciation for education. Also, unusual for the time, she developed a yearning to travel and experience cultural diversity around the world. After graduating from North High School and then Syracuse University, she left Syracuse in the late 1940s as a young single woman, traveling and living in Italy, Turkey, Afghanistan, India, and Japan.
When she returned to the USA after nearly a decade away she continued her education and then spent the next several decades working as a teacher interspersed with frequent world travels. She visited all seven continents, continuing to travel into her late 80s. She also continued to live the same frugal and fiercely independent life that she experienced as a child. She never had children of her own, but was devoted to her six nieces and nephews, all of whom graduated from Henninger High School. Connie also worked at Henninger High School as well as other schools in the Syracuse City School District. She was a life-long learner and supporter of education and would be delighted to know that her legacy will assist young learners with the gift of furthering their education. The Concetta Tuori Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in Connie’s memory.
Requirements
Applicant must be graduating from Henninger High School, have financial need, display excellent progress in school, upstanding character, significant community and/or volunteer involvement, and desire to build a brighter future for Syracuse and the world. Preference for students who are New Americans (including immigrants, children of immigrants, refugees or children of refugees) or Dreamers. Application must include two letters of recommendation from teachers and an essay. One scholarship can be awarded and is renewable up to four years, pending the recipient provides proof of enrollment.
To apply for this CNYCF scholarship, click here to access our scholarship portal.