Honoring the Generosity of Others With a gift for the future
Daniel Saraceno, '09
Scholarships can change lives and help Ohio State students achieve their dreams. This was especially true for Daniel Saraceno, ’09, who was able to attend Ohio State through the Stadium Scholarship Program.
“The fact that others were selfless enough to donate to Ohio State made it possible for me to earn a degree in international relations,” said Daniel.
The opportunities Daniel received at Ohio State helped shape his future career path in the national security and intelligence field in Washington, D.C. Daniel spent a semester in the nation’s capital through the Washington Academic Internship Program offered by the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. He was also matched with an alumni mentor who helped him secure an internship in the Center for a New American Security, a Washington, D.C. based bi-partisan think tank.
While at Ohio State, Daniel made a promise that he would one day give back so that other students can receive the same educational opportunities and experiences that he did.
“My father, a police detective for over 42 years, taught me that I should always stay true to my word and do what I said I would,” he said. “I decided to create a scholarship so that other students with leadership skills, drive and academic ability can have the financial means to achieve an Ohio State education.”
The Jean and Robert Saraceno American Dream Scholarship Fund, named in honor of Daniel’s parents, will provide one scholarship annually to a first-generation college student attending The Ohio State University, whose career ambitions support or promote U.S. national security.
Daniel has always been passionate about protecting the local community and nation. The scholarship will be awarded to students in multiple fields of study who will leverage their area of focus to promote peace and national security.
As a first-generation college student, Daniel’s parents always emphasized the importance of an education and becoming a positive member of society. He made his gift in their honor to show his gratitude for their constant support and inspiration.
“So many times when I was faced with what felt like an insurmountable challenge or obstacle, I’d remember my grandparent’s voyage to America and the hopeful sacrifices and efforts of my parents, all in pursuit of the American Dream to build a better life for their children,” said Daniel.
“I hope my gift honors everything my parents sacrificed for me, along with those that donated to Ohio State and made my college dream a reality,” he said. “I will always be grateful for what others have done for me and hope that I can make a difference in the lives of future students, and enable them to achieve their own American Dream.”