Giving back comes easily and naturally for Robert C. Aronoff ’73. Since 1978, Robert’s community service has been focused on youth and education. “I believe in mentoring young people and teaching them the value of an education. However when they turn 18, they often don’t have the money to go to college,” shared Robert. In 1990, as a board member of the Jewish Big Brothers, Big Sisters Association of Los Angeles, he established a scholarship program which on average awards 40 scholarships per year. Many of these scholarship recipients are Cal students.
This experience, coupled with an affinity for his alma mater, propelled Robert to support CAA Alumni Scholarships. In 2008, Robert became interested in The Achievement Award Program (TAAP). Impressed by the motivation and accomplishments of TAAP scholars, he endowed the Robert C. Aronoff Achievement Award. “TAAP is a great program. It provides more than cash for students in need, it has a mentoring component.”
As part of the TAAP family, Robert gets to know the students who benefit from his endowment. He has fond memories of getting to know Jeanette Vasquez ’11. Most recently, he was inspired by Lucas Nguyen ’13 who invented the Chemplate. Robert mentored and guided Lucas during the manufacturing and distribution process. “Lucas had a good idea and it was a privilege to go along for the ride. Helping students like Lucas is important to me.”
Robert continues to support CAA Alumni Scholarships. This past August he established the Robert C. Aronoff Leadership Award to express his appreciation for the University of California, Berkeley, and its impact on his life, the lives of others, and the country. “I hope to duplicate the success of the Jewish Big Brothers, Big Sisters Scholarship and the Robert C. Aronoff Achievement Award.”
In addition to establishing endowments, Robert currently volunteers as a reader and interviewer for TAAP and The Leadership Award. “Being involved with the selection process makes me more appreciative of the quality of students who need and earn these awards. It leaves no doubt that I am getting my money’s worth. It also keeps me in touch with young people.”
Robert’s passion and dedication as both a volunteer and a donor are what make CAA Alumni Scholarships possible and successful. “Supporting CAA scholarships is a chance for me to help the next generation. Education is important, not just for personal success but for our country. I am just doing my part.”
