Gary Paul Piantanida Scholarship

The Gary Paul Piantanida Scholarship was established by Paul and Edna Piantanida in honor of their only son, Gary Paul Piantanida. Gary died of lymphatic leukemia at the age of 15 in 1958. He had attended San Luis Obispo High school and enjoyed playing basketball. Mr. Paul Piantanida was a descendant of Italian immigrants and valued and held a strong work ethic. As a child, he helped support his family through the Great Depression. Later, he founded and ran two successful companies, served in World War II, and mentored Cal Poly students. Mrs. Edna Piantanida was an incredible woman of grace who worked for Pacific Telephone for 38 years. The Piantanidas were married for 61 years. The recipient exemplifies the tenets the Piantanidas valued: a strong work ethic, dependability, a good character, and integrity.

Open to graduating seniors from a San Luis Obispo County high school planning to attend a four-year university or begin study at a two-year community college. Demonstrated financial need.