The Cosmo Avato '50 Scholarship for Education
Cosmo Avato graduated with a Bachelor’s of Education from Westfield State Teacher’s College in 1950. He then went on to become an accomplished educator, eventually earning his Master’s degree and Doctorate. During his time at Westfield State, Cosmo worked at the student newspaper, known back then as Westek. He eventually rose to the position of editor-in-chief when he was just a Junior.
Dr. Avato dedicated his life to educating students within the Springfield Public Schools. The Cosmo Avato ‘50 Scholarship for Education will assist students from Springfield Public Schools that will be attending Westfield State University to pursue a career in education with the cost of tuition. In this way, Cosmo Avato’s passion for education will live on indefinitely.
Alice Beal, Assistant Superintendent described Cosmo Avato as:
“A man of quiet dignitiy,
an honoroable and honest individual,
a strong minded and determined person,
a man of scholarship,
a person who serves as a tree of knowledge,
an individual of superior intellect,
an artful diplomat,
a true professional,
an administrator par excellence,
and last, but not least, a good friend.”
Impact
“Having changed my major to Secondary Education has served as a marker for an important change in my life. The end that I desire to achieve is one that does not bring glory to myself but something much greater. It is times such as these that give me hope and feed the faith that I have in the belief that I am on the right path. Thank you again to the Cosmo Avato ’50 Scholarship for Education.”
-Isaiah Gregory ’19, Secondary Education and History
“Thank you so much for granting me the Cosmo Avato ’50 Scholarship for Education Scholarship. Every cent is money I pay for myself for college and it is a load off my parents.”
-Lisha Lopez ’23, Early Childhood Education and Spanish
“This scholarship is an impactful contributor to my career and my goals as an educator. I express immense gratitude for this blessing. And I plan in the future to make similar meaningful contributions to passionate learners and also believe in their education. Education is key.”
-Erick Zorrilla ’22, English
“Thank you so much for choosing me to be the recipient of the Cosmo Avato ’50 Scholarship award. This award will help me greatly on my education journey, and help me achieve my lifelong goal of becoming a teacher.”
-Paige Freeman, History