Sue Cianciola Career Pathway Endowed Scholarship

A Family Rooted in Barberton

Many Barberton residents know a Macko or Cianciola, and Sue might be the most famous — and generous — of them all. The Cianciola/Macko family has long been one of Barberton’s “core” families, the kind of name everyone recognizes because they’ve worked, volunteered, and raised their families here for generations.

While Sue’s father and uncle owned Macko Restaurant, her parents owned Joe-Jo’s Drive-Thru, where they built their business reputation by treating customers like family. Sue grew up in that environment, learning the value of hard work and good service — starting in the restaurant when she was just eleven years old. “We were taught to work hard and to be kind,” she recalls. “That’s what Barberton families do.”

Today, Sue continues that tradition of generosity. She gives faithfully to Barberton Area Community Ministries (BACM), Barberton City Schools’ Back to School program, and Magical Theatre Company, saying simply, “I just think that people need to support their community. I’ve been very fortunate, and I want to give back.”

The Growing Need for Skilled Trades

Across Ohio and the nation, there is a growing demand for skilled trade professionals — from electricians and welders to HVAC technicians, mechanics, and builders. Many of these fields offer excellent starting wages, job stability, and career opportunities for advancement without requiring a traditional four-year degree.

Locally, Barberton’s economy depends on a vibrant workforce of skilled laborers and technicians. As experienced tradespeople retire, the need for new talent is only increasing. The Sue Cianciola Career Pathway Endowed Scholarship Fund helps meet this challenge by supporting students who are eager to enter the workforce, fill critical gaps in skilled industries, and build meaningful, sustainable careers.

By investing in students pursuing trades, Sue’s fund empowers individuals and strengthens Barberton’s economic foundation — ensuring the city continues to grow and thrive through the hands of its own people.

Sue’s Vision and Legacy

Sue’s guiding philosophy is inspired in part by her late husband, Danny, who “always paid it forward.” That value — of generosity and gratitude — shapes the scholarship’s mission.

“The kids need support, and the businesses need support too,” Sue said. “If I were an employer looking at this scholarship, I’d want to hire a student who earned it.”

Through this scholarship Sue continues her family’s legacy of community service and kindness. Just as her family treated customers like family at Macko’s and Joe-Jo’s. Sue is treating Barberton’s next generation with the same care, investing in their future, their skills, and their potential.

Purpose

The Sue Cianciola Career Pathway Endowed Scholarship Fund supports career certification and credentialing programs in skilled trades and technical fields. The scholarship uplifts students who demonstrate grit, reliability, and determination in their life — even if an academic-based career isn’t the career path for them.

Sue created this fund to help “kids that school just doesn’t click for but they have a lot to offer” — the ones who are smart, capable, and ready to work, and who could use a little extra support to reach their goals.

“A lot of kids are smart in ways that school doesn’t always measure,” Sue says. “They just need someone to believe in them.”

Award and Eligibility

Beginning in 2026, one $1,000 scholarship will be awarded each year to a Barberton High School senior who:

• • Lives in Barberton, Ohio
  • Is enrolled in or accepted to a trade, technical, or credentialing program
  • Demonstrates commitment to completing their program
  • Shows strong work ethic, motivation, and potential for success
  • May also demonstrate financial need

Eligible Fields

• • Electrical work
  • Plumbing
  • Welding
  • HVAC
  • Carpentry
  • Masonry
  • Automotive technology
  • Cosmetology
  • Landscaping, construction, and other skilled trades

*Healthcare, medical, and culinary programs are not eligible in order to focus this award on traditional trades and technical fields that connect directly to the local workforce. Other scholarships for these fields are available! Visit barbertoncf.org to learn more.

Connection to Barberton Community Foundation’s Strategic Plan

The Sue Cianciola Career Pathway Endowed Scholarship Fund directly supports Barberton Community Foundation’s Workforce Development and Career Pathways initiative, which builds bridges between education and employment. By helping students enter trades and technical fields, this fund strengthens both the workforce and the Barberton community for years to come.

How to Contribute

Community members who wish to support Sue’s vision can contribute to the fund at any time. To donate, visit barbertoncf.org/donate and select Sue Cianciola Career Pathway Endowed Scholarship Fund.