In late October, the University of St. Francis (USF) University Advancement office presented the new Joseph “Tony” Delgado Scholarship to its inaugural recipients during a special luncheon event. USF baseball player Matthew Lopez, of Morris, and USF softball player Isabella Landeros, of Frankfort, were named as the first two recipients of the scholarship.
The luncheon event was a special occasion filled with stories of Delgado, his love for athletics, St. Francis, and his community. During the event, longtime USF donor James R. Sefcik Jr. explained that he started the scholarship in memory of Delgado and the impact he created.
“Coach Delgado was a lifelong friend, who made an incredible impact on so many lives. I wanted to ensure his legacy lives on,” Sefcik said.
Amanda Jensen, head women’s softball coach at USF, echoed the importance this new scholarship has in sustaining Delgado’s legacy, noting: “These scholarship recipients are carrying the light Coach Delgado lit in the world.”
Aindrea Hogan, USF Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations, added scholarships create a tremendous amount of impact for the students who receive them, saying: “The gift of scholarship is an incredibly impactful gift of generosity for our students. Scholarship funds open doors, allowing goals to be accomplished, and dreams to come true. I hope one day, our scholarship recipients will continue this tradition of generosity by supporting other future Saints.”
Individuals can support the Joseph “Tony” Delgado Scholarship by visiting stfrancis.edu/give or by contacting the University Advancement Office at 815-740-2266.
About Joseph “Tony” Delgado: Joseph “Tony” Delgado, one of only five individuals to have their number retired in the 51-year history of the University of St. Francis athletics’ program, passed away unexpectedly this past June. Delgado celebrated his 80th birthday just one day prior to his passing. For 15 years, he was the co-architect of seven NAIA World Series teams alongside Head Coach Gordie Gillespie, including the 1993 national championship baseball team. Delgado and Gillespie worked together on the diamond for 20 years in all, including five seasons at nearby Lewis University, where they won another two NAIA championships together.