Massimo Parrello

Massimo Parrello, the eldest son of Harrison Police Officer Joseph Parrello, has just completed his first year of college while living at home. Now, with the support of The Nick Loeb Foundation Scholarship, he’s preparing to pack up and move to Conway, South Carolina.

“I just did my deposit yesterday, starting to look at all housing, meal plans, and all that good, exciting stuff,” Massimo shared.

Massimo’s college journey is taking an exciting turn as he prepares to attend Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, just 15 minutes from Myrtle Beach. Reflecting on the financial aspect of his education, Massimo credits the scholarship for allowing him to attend his “dream” school.

Left to right: Nick Loeb, Ilaria Damiano, Massimo Parrello.

“Without the scholarship, I wouldn’t even be considering the school that I’m going to. I would have ended up having to settle for a school that I really wouldn’t want to go to,” he shared.

The Nick Loeb Foundation Scholarship honors police officers by supporting the education of their children who possess outstanding character, leadership, and service. A scholarship committee of three community members – Marino Marin, Tara Xanthopoulos, and Kristine McMath – reviewed nearly 20 candidates.

“Massimo blew us all away in his interview,” Tara, an educator from Harrison said. Kristine, an educator from White Plains, added, “He surpassed every single category.”

Marino, who joined the committee his “commitment to supporting those who serve our communities,” said it was no surprise Massimo was selected as last year’s scholarship winner, calling him “a standout candidate.”

“His father’s dedication and service as a police officer clearly instilled in Massimo a strong sense of duty and perseverance,” Marino said.

Massimo attended Brewster High School, excelling in football, lacrosse, and wrestling. His leadership skills were evident early on, as he captained both his high school football and wrestling teams.

After high school, Massimo attended Springfield College in Massachusetts, where he played Division III football. To save money, he moved home for his second semester and transferred to Western Connecticut State University. Over the past six months, he balanced work and school, driving to classes, returning home to eat, and working four times a week at Aversano’s Pizzeria.

Massimo attributes his dedication to hard work to his upbringing and strong family values.

“We were always taught respect in our house,” he said, “and that honesty and hard work pay off. I carried that throughout my whole life to where I am now.”

At Coastal Carolina University, Massimo plans to major in physical education to become a gym teacher and coach football. His passion for teaching and coaching stems from his childhood experiences with his father.

“My dad was always my coach growing up. He really instilled in me the importance of becoming a leader,” Massimo said. “We grew up talking about family and hard work, and we were always taught respect in our house.”

Growing up surrounded by first responders, Massimo has a deep respect for their influence. He credits his father for instilling in him the importance of leadership through selflessness and courage, qualities required to serve others daily, often without recognition.

“The good that they do for everybody on a daily basis often goes unnoticed. It’s truly something.”

Massimo values the Nick Loeb Foundation for recognizing the hard work of police officers.

“I appreciate what they’re doing,” he said, “first responders give everything and sometimes don’t get anything back.”