The University of New Haven officially dedicated Celentano Hall to generous donor Joseph E. “Chick” Celentano Sr. for his contributions to the university.

Chick donated land across the street from Bergami Hall and annual scholarships for West Haven students pursuing a degree in higher education will be given in his name.

Celentano Hall, Chick Hall for short, was formerly known as Soundview Hall. It is the largest residence hall on campus and features spectacular views of the Long Island Sound. It was also the first “green” residence hall at UNH and has received LEED gold certification status.

Chick is a West Haven native and is a successful businessman. He owns the popular Chick’s drive-in restaurant on Beach Sreet in West Haven, which was founded by his father. Dr. Henry C. Lee recapped his first moments in the U.S. and how Chick’s former hot dog stand was the first place he ate.

Chick also used his restaurant to help UNH students; he would hire them for summer jobs so that they could work and earn money for the following semester. His motto was “give me a day’s work, I’ll give you a day’s pay and we will work as a team.”

Phillip H. Bartels described Chick as a “tireless advocate for his hometown.” In 1969, Chick received the Outstanding Citizen of West Haven award.

Aside from his deep roots in his family business and his emphasis on giving back, Chick is also a veteran of the United States Navy and Air Force.

At UNH there are over 200 Veterans. In recognition and admiration for his service, Justin Farrar, a sophomore at UNH and Air Force Veteran, said, “generous donors teach students the importance of giving back.”