The Ryan Pippo Realbuto Award, honoring the memory of Ryan Realbuto, Class of 2023, recognizes students who exemplify the university’s belief that “education must be transformative of the whole person, concerned not only with the intellect, but also with the will, heart and body.” It’s presented by the Department of Sociology and Criminology.
The award was established to honor the memory of Realbuto, a Sociology and Criminology major who exemplified selfless service and compassion. Known for his incredible work ethic and ability to uplift those around him, Realbuto tragically lost his life on Jan. 19, 2024, while serving with the Capuchin Volunteer Corps at Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School in Washington, D.C.
The award celebrates students who carry forward Realbuto’s legacy by serving the St. Bonaventure community with joy and dedication. It is presented annually on or near Jan. 31, the feast day of Saint John “Don” Bosco.
As a student, Ryan Realbuto was what all teachers hope for in a student… one willing to ask questions and respond to our questions. His studies did not always come easy for him. But he was humble enough and always willing to do better that he would often come see us before or after an exam or paper to seek guidance on how to do better. We admired him greatly for that. And that hard work and dedication paid off for Ryan with a solid GPA upon graduation.
We all knew that Ryan was just as committed to growing outside of the classroom as he was in the classroom. His attention to ministry-related activities and service at Bonaventure was an important part of his life and growth as a person. In his senior year, he received a University Ministries Award for his dedication to service at Mt. Irenaeus. And so when Ryan decided to pursue a year of ministry after graduation, it was not a surprise to any of those who knew him.
His tragic death has affected all of us. His life is one that deserves to be recognized and honored. And so we are honored in the Department of Sociology and Criminology to have this award in Ryan’s name to honor those, who like Ryan, exemplify academic excellence and service to others.