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There were many winners in 91ºÚÁÏ’s 2021 Alumni Giving Weekend — most notably the Class of 2013, which won the competition for highest participation rate, and TAC students, who will benefit from nearly $150,000 in philanthropy. Yet worthy of special mention are Cynthia (DeLuca ’88) and Tony Montanaro (’82), who are headed on a luxurious, post-pandemic, seven-day cruise for two on Holland America Line.

“To encourage alumni involvement, a generous benefactor gave the College a certificate for a free cruise for two, which we raffled off among those who contributed $50 or more,� says Vice President Paul J. O’Reilly. “Then, to sweeten the pot, we gave a second entry to all members of the class with the highest participation rate.�

The Montanaros, however, didn’t need a second entry. Their one raffle ticket was enough to claim the prize. “We were happy to give to the College,� says Mrs. Montanaro. “The cruise was not at all why we gave, and we had no expectation of winning — Anthony didn’t even know there was a cruise!�

He does now. “We are so excited about this,� Mrs. Montanaro continues. “We’ve never won anything in our lives! We’re so happy to make this our summer vacation.�

The Montanaros, who live near the College’s California campus in Fillmore, are parents of four children, two of whom are fellow alumni, and one who is a current student.

“We’re delighted to see a loyal, two-generation TAC family win the cruise,� says Dr. O’Reilly. “I hope they have a wonderful vacation — they deserve it!�