Dr. Domenico and Betty Volturno Awards

Dr. Domenico and Betty Volturno came to Bradley in 1959. Dr. Volturno worked in the religious studies department, lecturing on world religions and stressing the theme of unity among people everywhere. He was an active Bradley faculty member supporting athletics and strengthening student/faculty relations. He was a founder of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. He was also on the faculty bowling and table tennis teams. Sadly, Dr. Volturno was killed July 30, 1977.

Betty Volturno is originally from Yorkshire in the UK. She and Domenico met at a street fair during World War II before he shipped out to fight in Europe. They corresponded during the war, while she was in England surviving the Blitz. When the war was won they married and moved to the US.

At Bradley the Volturnos became unofficial campus parents to hundreds of students over the years. Their home was a warm place young people could find welcome. Betty and Domenico were active volunteers in their church and at Bradley. Betty often helped with special projects, including stuffing envelopes to get mailings out to alumni and prospective parents.

The Dr. Domenico and Betty Volturno awards were established in the spirit of service that Domenico and Betty have exemplified through their lives. The awards are presented to two outstanding seniors who have proven their dedication to service. The recipients must have values similar to the Volturnos’ and exhibit high moral character. This award is a significant recognition of humane service to others.

Eligible students:

1. have earned at least 90 hours (senior standing)
2. have a cumulative grade point of 3.0
3. submit a complete application to the Bradley University before the deadline

Nominations must be received by the Selection Committee by Friday, April 1, 2024.

Each recipient will receive an award and a $100 gift. In addition, their names will be added to the plaque that hangs in the Hayden-Clark Alumni Center library. The list in the library influences and reminds young people how important service to others is, and provides names of those who demonstrate the unselfish type of service practiced by Domenico and Betty and by other outstanding Bradley students.

The award recipients will be announced at the end of April.

– Dr. Domenico and Betty Volturno as sorority chaperones at Bradley, 1962.