Rocco DeLorenzo Male • United States of America

Rocco DeLorenzo is a dynamic individual whose academic journey at Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, along with the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, culminated in a dual major in Food Science (with a business concentration) and Applied Economics and Management (with a focus on strategy and food industry management). His academic pursuits are deeply intertwined with a passion for the food industry, particularly at the intersection of business operations and the scientific aspects of food production.

During his tenure at Cornell, Rocco not only focused on his studies but also immersed himself in various student organizations that enriched his college experience. His significant involvement began with his induction into Chi Psi Fraternity during the spring of 2021, which he described as finding his "home away from home." His commitment to the fraternity and its values spurred him to take on leadership roles, including that of Risk Manager and Academic Chair, positions he held during his sophomore and junior years. These roles, though initially seeming modest, played a crucial part in his personal and professional development, laying the groundwork for more significant responsibilities within the Cornell community.

Rocco's leadership trajectory continued to ascend as he was elected Vice President of Membership and Alumni Development on the Cornell Interfraternity Council (IFC) Executive Board. In this role, he was instrumental in pioneering a comprehensive Hazing Prevention Training program that was introduced to over 50 new member educators from various fraternity chapters, significantly enhancing the fraternity's culture and safety. His initiatives did not stop there; he also organized a campus-wide Spikeball Tournament to foster camaraderie among the fraternities.

A turning point in his leadership journey occurred following a tragic incident involving an accidental drug overdose within the IFC community. Reacting swiftly, Rocco spearheaded the adoption of preventive measures, including the establishment of a Narcan Training program for all Cornell IFC chapters—a move that not only enhanced safety but also influenced university policy henceforth.

Rocco's commitment to improving the IFC community's safety standards continued to grow. He played a pivotal role in developing and implementing a Sexual Violence Prevention plan, which included a series of initiatives aimed at fostering a safer community environment. This plan, which he continued to refine and promote, was eventually embraced by the entire community, leading to its formal approval and implementation.

Aside from his fraternity commitments, Rocco also dedicated himself to the broader Cornell community through his role as Vice President of Finance for the Student Assembly. Here, he was responsible for overseeing the Student Activity fee-setting process, demonstrating a keen understanding of financial management and advocacy. His efforts culminated in the successful recommendation of a significant fee increase, reflecting his deep understanding of the financial challenges facing student organizations.

Beyond the university, Rocco's influence extended to the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) Advisory Council, where he engaged with national fraternity leaders to enhance the fraternity experience across the continent. His academic accolades also include being selected for the Food Marketing Fellows honors program, where he engaged with industry leaders both locally and internationally.

Rocco's practical experience in the food industry includes internships at Giovanni Foods, Mondel?z International, and Restaurant Brands International, where he gained valuable insights into food quality, ingredient technology, and restaurant operations.

Rocco DeLorenzo's journey at Cornell University is marked by his robust leadership, commitment to community safety, and proactive approach to both academic and extracurricular endeavors. His efforts have not only made a lasting impact on his fraternity and university community but also set a strong foundation for his future endeavors in the food industry.