SAM GERARDI
Sam Gerardi Obtained a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 1956. Following his obtaining a degree, he commenced work as one of the pioneers of space rocketry. He was involved in military high tech weapons and jet engine manufacturing development and received special recognition from one of the fathers of the space program, Doctor Wehner Von Braun and astronaut Neil Armstrong.
Gerardi was a member of the 1953 undefeated fighting Irish football team which was proclaimed by Coach Frank Leahy as the best team he had coached. Notre Dame was recognized as the number one team in the country after the other number one team, Maryland, was manhandled by Oklahoma which earlier Notre Dame had beaten convincingly.
Sam also worked as a volunteer assistant to Notre Dame coached Ara Parseghian and Dan Devine from 1966 through 1980. He also found time to coach youth football from 1996 until 1999.
Sam has been involved in the chapter since its inception and is a recipient of the Los Angeles Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award.
