This Scholarship opportunity is being provided to the community to honor the memory of our Guiding Lion, Rocco Valluzzi.  Rocco was a member of the Amigos de Vista Lions club and served as their President as well as Zone Chair for Lions International District 4L6.

Rocco volunteered his time to teach our club how to be Lions both administratively and with HEART.  Lions are the "Knights of the Blind" and also focus on hearing and speech problems.  Our new century goal is to focus more attention on our youth while retaining our commitment to the citizens of the world and their home.  Our motto is "We Serve".

Rocco Valluzzi grew up in New York and received a 4 year degree in Chemistry.  His first career was spent in the US Marine Corps.  Retiring after 31 years, as a highly decorated Colonel, Rocco served the City of Vista as an Elected Council Member from 1996-2000, and was instrumental in the planning and negotiations for the New Vista Village.

The Pride of Vista Lions Club is proud to say "Thank You" to our mentor by establishing a scholarship that reflects the ideals we knew were important to him: Youth, Service and the Environment

GOAL:  To reward community involvement, enhance self-esteem, and build confidence by offering scholarships for the formal education of students.

ENTRANTS:  The contest is open to Seniors of any Vista high school, charter school, private school or home school.  Additionally the contest is open to other Seniors living in San Diego County who are recommended by an active member in good standing of the Pride of Vista Lions Club.  The successful entrant will intend to pursue an Associates or Bachelors Degree in Environmental Sciences (including the study of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and/or Math).

Eligibility Criteria: 

Two written recommendations: (1 must be from a teacher or counselor, and 1 from a non-relative).

One essay of 250-500 words: 

The subject is:  "How I plan to use my education to preserve, protect and improve the environment of planet earth.

One current transcript.

One completed   with community service information.

Winner must provide proof of enrollment at a 2 or 4 year college no later than September 30, 2012 or award is forfeited.

Due date for initial contestant package:  Postmarked on or before March 14, 2012.

Pride of Vista Lions Club

Rocco Valluzzi Memorial Scholarship

Attn:  John McKinley, Chairperson

PO Box 258

Vista, CA  92085-0258

 Winner will be notified by mail on or before April 26, 2012.

Awards:  One scholarship of $2,000.00 will be offered, with awards of $1000.00 each for the top 5 runners up.  Scholarship will be mailed directly to the college no later than October 30, 2012.  Winner must provide a current photo (for publicity purposes) to the Committee Chairperson.