The Harrisburg University of Science and Technology received its first million-dollar private gifts as the private family foundations of Rocco A. Ortenzio and Robert A. Ortenzio committed a combined $2.65-million to the University. This is the largest private gift commitment in the institution’s five-year history.  Two separate gifts of $1.325-million from both The Ortenzio Family Foundation and the Robert and Angela Ortenzio Family Foundation will establish the Ortenzio Learning Center in the University’s new Academic Center. The Ortenzio Learning Center will encompass the twelfth and thirteenth floors in the University’s new 16-story Academic Center, which is currently under construction at 326 Market Street.

“On behalf of the Ortenzio family, we are pleased to support Harrisburg University and the excellent educational foundation it offers to students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” said Rocco A. Ortenzio, noted philanthropist and executive chairman of Select Medical Corporation.  In the past, Mr. Ortenzio has been a generous supporter of public, private and parochial schooling and funds scholarships through his private foundation. 

“Harrisburg University is a wonderful addition to the fine academic institutions located within the mid-state,” said Robert A. Ortenzio, chief executive officer of Select Medical Corporation and a member of the University’s Board of Trustees.  “The University provides countless educational opportunities for young adults, working professionals and local businesses, such as Select Medical.” 

The gifts were publicly announced at the University Alumni Day and Open House celebration on September 13th, and were presented by Robert A. Ortenzio, CEO of Select Medical Corporation.

Photo Above (left-to-right): Randy Grespin (Chair, Advancement Committee), Dr. Mel Schiavelli (President, Harrisburg University), Rocco A. Ortenzio (Executive Chairman, Select Medical Corporation), Robert A. Ortenzio (Chief Executive Officer), R. Timothy Weston (Chair, Board of Trustees), Gary Nalbandian (Chair, CONNECT Campaign Committee)

The gifts are designated to support CONNECT: The Campaign for Harrisburg University—the University’s inaugural comprehensive fundraising campaign that was publicly launched at the Groundbreaking Gala Celebration in November 2006. The Ortenzio family gift raises the current total of commitments to approximately $26-million or 65 percent toward the overall goal of $40-million. Private support of the magnitude of the Ortenzio family gift is what will make the University’s campaign a success, as well as ensure the continued fast-paced rise of Harrisburg University as a prominent institution of higher education in the Commonwealth. The University’s fundraising campaign has enjoyed widespread support from across the Capital Region. To-date, several hundred individuals and organizations have made supporting Harrisburg University one of their top philanthropic investments. Gifts of all levels and from all corners of the region demonstrate the sense of ownership that Central Pennsylvanians have for Harrisburg University. As such, we are truly grateful and will continue moving forward to provide the region with a return on its philanthropic investment.