YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Richard Zarilla, a 1960 Youngstown State University graduate, has made an estate gift of $148,000 to support the Kilcawley: Centered on the Future campaign. 

The contribution will aid in the renovation and modernization of Kilcawley Center, a central hub for student life at YSU.

Zarilla, who died in 2021, was committed to education and lifelong learning. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from YSU and went on to secure two doctorates. He was a founding faculty member of Reading Area Community College, where he taught chemistry until his retirement. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a passion for education and a deep belief in the power of knowledge to shape futures.

In addition to the estate gift, Zarilla made other donations to YSU during his lifetime, including gifts to the DiBacco Family Leadership Center and the Watson Team Center, bringing his total lifetime contributions to $375,870.

“Dr. Zarilla’s commitment to education and his generous support of YSU will leave an enduring legacy,” said Paul McFadden, president of the YSU Foundation. “His estate gift is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that planned gifts can have on our university and our students. This contribution will help shape the future of Kilcawley Center and the broader YSU community for many years to come.”

YSU President Bill Johnson expressed his appreciation for Zarilla’s support. 

“Dr. Zarilla’s incredible generosity reflects his passion for higher education and his lasting commitment to YSU,” he said. “His gift will play a crucial role in the Kilcawley Center renovation, which will create new opportunities for students to connect, collaborate and thrive. We are deeply grateful for his vision and legacy.”

Scott Schulick, chairman of the Kilcawley: Centered on the Future campaign, also emphasized the importance of the gift in the broader context of the project. 

“The Kilcawley renovation is an investment in the future of our students and campus community,” he said. “Dr. Zarilla’s gift is a testament to his belief in YSU’s mission and his desire to provide future generations with the tools they need to succeed. We are honored to carry forward his legacy as we work to create a space that will continue to inspire and empower our students.”