News Story
September 29, 2025
A Life of Service Becomes a Legacy of Opportunity at La Roche University

Carol Marsiglio ’75 lived a life grounded in service and a deep belief in the transformative power of education.
Some of her earliest lessons came in a humble two-grade classroom at St. Mary’s Elementary School in Allison Park, PA. Years later, she attended La Roche University as a returning adult student, guided by a lifelong conviction: education creates opportunity.
This belief shaped her own journey and inspired a generous estate gift to La Roche, ensuring future generations can benefit from the same life-changing experience.
Carol’s nearly half-million-dollar gift will strengthen the La Roche University Excellence Fund and establish The Carol and Clyde Marsiglio Pioneers of Tomorrow Scholarship. This endowed scholarship will benefit Pell Grant-eligible students and give preference to those first in their families to attend college.
“We are deeply grateful for Carol’s generous gift, which honors both her own legacy of service and the memory of her husband,” said La Roche University President Christina A. Clark. “Their shared belief in education and community will create meaningful opportunities for students and inspire future generations to give back.”
A Second Home at La Roche
One of 13 siblings in a blended family, Carol was among the few to attend college, following in the footsteps of two older brothers who pursued higher education after serving in World War II. As a nontraditional student later in life, she transferred to La Roche from Mt. Mercy College, now known as Carlow University.
After graduating in 1975, Carol stayed connected to La Roche, attending events, keeping in touch with the Sisters of Divine Providence, and later becoming an inaugural member of the University’s Distinguished Alumni Circle in 2013.
“La Roche was her second family. Everyone welcomed her, and they were very kind and helpful to her,” said Marian O’Leary, Carol’s sister-in-law. “She spent a lot of time in the library—that was one of her loves. She loved books and poetry.”
A Career Serving Others
Guided by a heart for service, Carol built a career that reflected her values. She led North Suburban Adult Services in Bellevue, PA, supporting adults across the region. Later, she became the first Director of Social Services at Pittsburgh’s Passavant Hospital, where she launched the hospital’s first cancer support group in partnership with the Cancer Caring Center.
In retirement, Carol returned to the classroom as an adjunct professor at La Roche, continuing to uplift others through education. “She was always concerned for returning, older students who never had the opportunity to get an education. That was something she felt very strongly about,” said Joe O’Leary, Carol’s brother.
Shared Values
Carol shared her commitment to education with husband, Clyde, a skilled machinist and devoted Steelers fan. Married for 20 years, they supported each other’s dreams—including Carol’s return to college, inspired by Clyde’s belief in lifelong learning.
Carol passed away on Jan. 11, 2025, but her enduring gift will fulfill her long-held dream: to create a scholarship in Clyde’s memory and to open doors for students with similar stories—including those who strive to be the first in their families to earn a degree.
Leave Your Legacy
Carol’s story is a powerful reminder of how one thoughtful gift can create lasting impact. To learn more about how you can make a difference through planned giving, please visit laroche.plannedgiving.org or contact George Barron, vice president for University Advancement, at 412-536-1096 or george.barron@laroche.edu.