Richmond County Savings Foundation Provides Support for Marchi Visiting Scholar and SI Leadership Institute

November 30, 2007

Cesar Claro, Executive Director of the Richmond County Savings Foundation (RCSF), presented a check for $51,000 to College of Staten Island President Tomás Morales today, providing $50,000 to fund a new Senator John J. Marchi Visiting Scholar in Public Affairs position and for $1,000 of continued funding for the Staten Island Leadership Institute.

The Visiting Scholar position recognizes Senator Marchi as a tireless advocate for Staten Island for nearly six decades and a leader in the development of legislation to strengthen education at all levels, as well as his unwavering commitment to the College of Staten Island. The Staten Island Leadership Institute provides a forum where emerging community and business leaders come together in an environment that fosters growth and dialogue on community issues.

Commenting on the Marchi Visiting Scholar position, Claro says, “My board is proud and honored to support this project and to recognize Senator Marchi’s contribution to the people of Staten Island.” Claro added that his foundation made the grant in honor of Senator Marchi’s late brother, Nando, who was a member of the RCSF board.

President Morales states that the grants will “significantly benefit the College and the residents of Staten Island by greatly enhancing the level of scholarship and leadership in the Borough.”