Western New England University (WNE) announces today that Dr. Anthony S. Caprio, the institution’s fifth president and a distinguished scholar, educator, and administrator, will be honored with the prestigious Delbridge Family Spirit of Philanthropy Award during the University’s annual Leadership Donor Reception on Wednesday, September 24 at GreatHorse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden, MA.
The Delbridge Family Spirit of Philanthropy Award recognizes the sustained and significant philanthropic service of a Western New England University community member during their lifetime. The award is named in honor of Kevin S. ’77/H’19 and Sandra E. Delbridge, in recognition of their extraordinary support of the University. Dr. Caprio’s legacy at Western New England University and beyond exemplifies this service.
Appointed in 1996 following a national search, Dr. Caprio led Western New England University for 25 years, fostering academic excellence throughout the University, strategic growth, and deep community engagement. Under his leadership, the University expanded its global partnerships, enhanced its liberal and professional curriculum, and strengthened its role as a vital contributor to the region’s educational and economic landscape. In 2000, Dr. Caprio was awarded an honorary bachelor's degree from the University — at the request of the graduates of the class of 2000 who wanted Dr. Caprio to be granted a diploma along with them as an honorary member of their class.
Dr. Caprio presided over an extraordinary era of growth and transformation at Western New England. Major building projects completed during his presidency include LaRiviere Hall, Southwood Hall, Commonwealth Hall, Evergreen Village, the Kevin S. Delbridge Welcome Center, the Flynn Family Athletic Pavillion, the Golden Bear Stadium, the George E. Trelease Memorial Baseball Park, the expansion of the S. Prestley Blake Law Center, and the full renovation and transformation of Herman Hall.
Perhaps most notably, Dr. Caprio spearheaded the creation of the University's College of Pharmacy, — along with the construction of the 126,000 square-foot, $40 million Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy. The impressive University Commons was the latest project undertaken under President Caprio's leadership.
Many of these capital improvements were made possible through two major fundraising campaigns conducted during Dr. Caprio’s presidency. Transformations: The Campaign for Western New England College raised more than $23 million exceeding its initial $20 million goal. A second campaign, the Campaign for Our Second Century, which concluded in 2020, was the largest, most successful fundraising effort in the University's history. The multi-year initiative exceeded its goal of $35 million and concluded a year ahead of schedule. Both initiatives made capital and programmatic changes possible.
“Few individuals have shaped the trajectory of Western New England University as profoundly as Dr. Caprio,” said Dean Hickey, Vice President for Advancement. “His vision, relentless pursuit of excellence, and ability to bring ambitious ideas to life transformed not only the campus landscape, but also the institution’s identity and aspirations. This award is a tribute to his leadership as a philanthropist and as a tireless advocate for Western New England.”
Dr. Caprio’s career spans more than 50 years in higher education, with influential roles at institutions including Oglethorpe University, American University, Cedar Crest College, and Lehman College. A noted language scholar, he has authored numerous books and articles in the fields of French literature and modern languages, and has been recognized in Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World, and Who’s Who in American Education.
His service on national and regional boards—including the American Bar Association, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts, and the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council—reflects his enduring dedication to educational advancement and civic leadership.
