From Mat to Mission: Keith Spataro’s journey of impact
Keith Spataro's journey is deeply intertwined with his time as a student-athlete at SFSU, where he discovered the determination and community spirit that continue to inspire his philanthropy today as a donor to the Spataro Alumni Wrestling Scholarship.
Johnny Mathis — yes, the singer — was a track star. 70 years later, he’s still giving back to SFSU.
Singer Johnny Mathis, San Francisco high-jump champion in the 1950s, has supported SFSU track & field for more than four decades. Read the San Francisco Chronicle profile of him.
Student Spotlight: Softball student-athlete Brylynn Vallejos
In addition to the team and campus, scholarships drew Brylynn to SFSU: “Scholarships have been a big help for me, especially coming from out of state. It helps me pay for my tuition and living expenses [and] ensures our sport runs smoothly.”
Gator Gridiron Club Launches $150,000 Campaign for Student-Athlete Scholarships
Vic Rowen (1919-2013) was the esteemed head coach of San Francisco State University’s football team from 1961-1989. His early tenure established SFSU as a West Coast football powerhouse.
Student Spotlight: Maxamillian Schneider
Judo and wrestling student-athlete Maxamillian Schneider’s impressive list of accomplishments boasts wins on over six different continents. With a life full of constant change and redirection, Maxamillian feels a sense of home at SFSU.
Jake Garrissere wins SFSU Track and Cross Country Mike Fanelli Scholarship
Jake chose to attend SFSU over other offers because of the camaraderie that he observed: “There was something about the team dynamics here at SFSU. Everybody really got along and loved to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”
Student Spotlight: Monisha Lewis
"Monisha had a very long and difficult road to achieve her success, but her determination and commitment has paid off," said Head Coach Kendra Reimer. "She is a leader and role model to the other women on the team. We are so proud of everything Monisha has accomplished this year."
Supporting Athletics: A Win-Win
If there’s one lesson sports teaches, it’s this: You can’t win alone. You need a strong team behind you. And backing SFSU’s student-athletes are supporters like Judy Marcus (B.A., ’62), who believes student-athletes are an invaluable resource to the University and broader community.
Alum Ronnie Schell, TV actor and comedian, honored for support of Gator Athletics Scholarships
Once an aspiring professional baseball player who played semi-pro ball, Ronnie Schell (B.A., '58) maintained his appreciation for the sport while at SFSU and long after.
