The estate of a Seton Hall University alumnus has bequeathed $10 million to help support students studying emerging and in-demand STEM fields.

SHU announced the gift from the estate of Frank Rubino ’64 Aug. 14. The funds will establish the Frank Rubino Endowed Scholarship, offering financial support to students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields, such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, computer science and engineering.

According to Seton Hall, the grant memorializes Rubino’s love for world travel and personal connection to his Italian-American heritage as well as Italy. To qualify for the scholarship, students must demonstrate an active interest in Italian studies. The school said applicants with demonstrated financial need will receive preference.

SHU noted engagement in Italian studies could include – but is not limited to – studying the Italian language, enrolling in the school’s Italian Studies minor, or even participating in travel abroad.

Rubino of Belleville, and formerly Montclair, died in 2021. The U.S. Army veteran and Seton Hall grad also participated in ROTC while studying at the South Orange institution, along with Math Club, Officer Club and Triphibian Guard. After serving as an army lieutenant stationed in Germany, Rubino returned to the U.S. and then began a lifelong career as an actuary with Prudential Insurance Co.

Feeding the future

“We’re honored to receive such a transformative gift,” said Seton Hall President Monsignor Joseph Reilly. “Ensuring more students have access to a Seton Hall education to hone their God-given talents is of the utmost importance to us.”

Dean of Seton Hall College of Arts and Sciences Jonathan Farina noted the gift comes at a “pivotal moment, as the job market increasingly demands professionals in STEM fields.

“By 2032, it is estimated that there will be more than 11.8 million new jobs in STEM,” he continued, adding that gifts like Rubino’s ensure SHU is preparing students for these future economic opportunities. “By correlating Italian studies with STEM, this gift also reinforces Seton Hall’s commitment to educating well-rounded students who excel in both technical disciplines and the arts, humanities, and sciences.”

Seton Hall noted the donation will aid its fundraising efforts and bring a lasting impact to the University’s mission to provide a values-based education rooted in academic excellence, servant leadership and global citizenship.

Earlier this year, Seton Hall announced a new Innovation Hub coming to Walsh Library to help expand access to emerging tech and hands-on learning.