HAZLETON, Pa. — Penn State Hazleton’s administration building has been named for Hazleton attorney Pasco L. Schiavo, one of the campus’ most ardent supporters. At a campus ceremony on April 24 with more than 250 people attending, the building officially became Pasco L. Schiavo Hall. In the fall of 2013, Schiavo gave a $1 million gift to the campus to create scholarships for students.
"It's a wonderful opportunity for us to recognize the outstanding philanthropy and community leadership that Pasco Schiavo has provided for Penn State Hazleton over the many decades, and it's a way for us to thank him," Penn State President Rodney Erickson said at the event.
Born and raised in Hazleton and a descendent of Italian immigrant coal miners, Schiavo witnessed firsthand the dedication and devotion of his parents and grandparents to improving conditions for people of the region. Returning to the area in 1962 after earning his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, he started a local legal practice and soon after began his affiliation with Penn State Hazleton by teaching at the campus.
Over the years, Schiavo has made substantial contributions of time, effort and money to the campus. As a member of the Penn State Hazleton Council, he held leadership positions including president, vice president, committee chairman and event volunteer. He is the campus chair of the For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students, which surpassed its goal ahead of schedule.
In 2001, he established the Louis and Josephine Shayna Schiavo Scholarship in memory of his parents. As another tribute to his family, he endowed the Louis and Josephine Shayna Schiavo Trustee Scholarship and established the Pasco L. Schiavo Scholarship at Penn State Hazleton.
In addition to Erickson, speakers included Penn State Hazleton Chancellor Gary Lawler, For the Future Vice Chair E. Lee Beard and Student Government Association President Casey Petty.
The ceremony included the unveiling of building signage, Schiavo’s induction into the Laurel Circle of the Mount Nittany Society, and presentation of a plaque which will be installed in the lobby of Schiavo Hall.