YSU to Honor Covelli for Entrepreneurship April 20

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University will honor Sam Covelli, owner and CEO of Covelli Enterprises Inc., by bestowing the 2016 Medallion for Entrepreneurship April 20.

The YSU chapter of Beta Sigma Gamma International Business Honor Society will present the honor at a reception in the Williamson College of Business Administration. The reception for Covelli, awarded an honorary doctorate from YSU, begins at 4 p.m., to be followed at 4:30 p.m. by a tribute, “Passion for Excellence & Community.”

Covelli is one of only four recipients in the United States chosen this year to receive the medallion.

“The Medallion for Entrepreneurship is awarded annually to outstanding individuals who combine innovative business achievement with service to humanity, and we are pleased to present this award to Sam Covelli,” said Christina Carosella, CEO of Beta Gamma Sigma, which has more than 560 collegiate chapters and 30 alumni chapters.

Covelli Enterprises, Warren, is the fourth-largest restaurant franchisee in the United States, and the largest Panera Bread franchisee, with more than 275 stores in five states and southern Ontario. Covelli is also a franchisee of several Dairy Queen and O’Charley’s restaurants.

“No one is more deserving of this award than Sam Covelli,” said Betty Jo Licata, dean of the Williamson College. “Mr. Covelli exemplifies the ideals of Beta Gamma Sigma through his exceptional business success and as a leading philanthropist. Covelli Enterprises has provided millions of dollars of food and financial support to a wide range of causes throughout Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida. All of the communities in which Covelli Enterprises operates are stronger because of Sam Covelli’s leadership and generosity.”

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.