Concert Raises $300K for Performing Arts Scholarships

Midtown Men lead attendees in celebrating SHU with a night of music and dance

A Sacred Heart University benefit concert featuring The Midtown Men raised $305,000 for an endowed scholarship for SHU performing arts program students.

The Midtown Men is comprised of four stars from the original cast of Jersey Boys. Tony Award winners Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony Award nominee J. Robert Spencer took the stage at the Sacred Heart University Community Theatre and performed an amazing show. At the concert, students, alumni, donors and community members connected and celebrated achievements within the SHU community.

Coming on the heels of the recent opening of the new John & Sabina Petillo Center for Performing Arts, the event also celebrated the ongoing contributions to the University’s performing arts programs by SHU President John J. Petillo and his wife, Sabina. The event was a testament to the community’s commitment to providing SHU students with unique learning experiences at state-of-the-art facilities.

The night began with a celebration to commemorate Petillo’s 15 years of University leadership. In his time at Sacred Heart, he has transformed the school into a world-class educational institution and built a vibrant and diverse community. He spoke briefly before the concert, thanking those in attendance for their continuing support.

“I am overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness [of] these past few weeks and am truly honored to have a scholarship in my name that will support our future performing arts Pioneers of Sacred Heart,” Petillo said.

Paul J. Sutera, senior vice president of University advancement, served as the evening's emcee. “Tonight is a night dedicated to raising funds for our students in the performing arts program, and I am delighted to share the news that thanks to the incredible generosity and support of many, Sacred Heart University has raised an astounding $305,000—a remarkable tribute to President Petillo’s new scholarship. We thank John for his leadership and transformational vision. And the best part, President Petillo and SHU aren’t done yet!”

Sacred Heart University’s Now We Lead comprehensive campaign is committed to student scholarships with the launch of its largest ever fundraising effort set on raising $150 million. Those interested in making an investment towards student scholarship can visit the campaign website and/or call 203-396-8086 for more information.