Distinguished Service Young Alumnus

Trine University alumnus Mathew Iacobelli, second from left, receives the Distinguished Service Young Alumnus Award from Trine president Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D. At left is Trine vice president for development Kent Stucky. At right is Col. George Higginson, president of the university's Alumni Association.

Mathew Iacobelli honored

with young alumnus award

ANGOLA, Ind. -- Trine University honored Mathew Iacobelli, a 2009 management graduate, with the Distinguished Service Young Alumnus Award Sept. 30 for his dedication to community service and helping students in need.

After graduation, Iacobelli went to work as a production supervisor at his family-owned and operated business, Sun-Brite Foods Inc. He’s proud of the legacy his grandfather started in 1973 and he continues the tradition of shipping tomatoes, beans, oils, vinegars, capers, pasta and more around the world.

When he’s not at work, Iacobelli gives his time and resources to others. He and his new wife, Tania, are heavily involved in their church, their community and Trine.

“I am so thankful for Tania and my parents. They have been huge supporters of me in all my endeavors,” Iacobelli said.

Even though Iacobelli has been out of school only two years, he already has started a scholarship fund to help struggling students.

“I wanted to start a scholarship and do something where I could give back to an average student who was like me, who struggled in school,” said Iacobelli, who added that many of his high school teachers didn’t push him to excel and indicated he should give up on school. “I fell in love with Trine University right away. I had close bonds with all my professors. That’s why I said I have to do something else with this university. I can’t leave and cut ties with it.”

His desire to help others goes beyond Trine’s campus. Iacobelli, a former Trine golfer, recently helped at a youth golf tournament in Ontario, Canada, and is very involved with minor league hockey. 

When discussing his future goals, Iacobelli doesn’t talk about personal success; he shares his vision for giving to others.

“Depending on how my life goes, and how work goes, I eventually would like to increase my scholarship,” Iacobelli said. “In the future, I’d like to get closer with the university and get more involved.”

To share your news, contact Trine University communication specialist Lindsay Winslow Brown at winslowbrownl@trine.edu.