$250,000 Bequeathed to Aquinas College

The late Henry Salvatori, prominent Los Angeles philanthropist and political power broker, left Thomas Aquinas College $250,000 in his will when he died earlier this month at age 96.

The bequest means Salvatori has given almost $2 million to the small Catholic liberal arts college that lies in the hills north of Santa Paula, said spokesman Don Boardman.

Indeed, he became the unique college’s first-ever donor when he handed over $10,000 in 1968.

The institution’s “Great Books” curriculum is solely based on the writings of some of the western world’s greatest minds.

“It must have struck a chord with him,” Boardman said.

Salvatori’s estate stipulates the money be used for a permanent endowment to pay for student scholarships. The former Bel-Air resident’s previous contributions to the college have included money for scholarships and its building fund.

Boardman estimates the $250,000 endowment will generate about $15,000 worth of scholarships annually.

“One of the biggest struggles we face, frankly, is being a young school and not having a big endowment,” he said. “Year by year the biggest challenge is coming up with student aid.”

About 83% of the college’s students receive some sort of financial aid toward the $19,200-a-year cost of tuition, room and board. Unless they are married, students are expected to live on campus.

Salvatori, who made his money from an oil company he founded in 1933, gave large gifts to numerous universities, hospitals, children’s clubs and civic groups during his lifetime.

He was also politically active, becoming a confidant of Ronald Reagan and a major contributor to Republican politicians.

The college is planning a special Mass for Salvatori.