Founders Gala

In 2017, Passan was the recipient of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Outstanding Philanthropist Award and the recipient of an honorary doctorate of humane letter degree from Wilkes University. His philanthropic support through the Passan Foundation, is apparent across the Wilkes campus, including Passan Hall, as well as many institutions across the Wyoming Valley.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, Passan served in the United States Navy during World War II, and upon returning home, was educated under the G.I. Bill. Starting with one truck, he founded Valley Distributing and Storage Company, a family owned and operated warehouse and trucking business in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, more than 70 years ago. A pioneer in the warehouse and distribution industry, Passan held leadership roles in the American Warehouse Association and the America Chain of Warehouses.

John and his wife, Ann, had a special respect for and dedication to nurses and the healthcare field, making significant gifts in their lifetime to advance health education. They were beloved friends and family to all who knew them.

Their niece, Carol K. Keup ’89, will be accepting the award on their behalf.

Fellerman earned his bachelor of arts from King’s College, his MBA from Wilkes University and his law degree from Widener School of Law. His practice focuses on helping individuals in need with a particular passion for helping victims of medical malpractice, negligent motorists, insurance bad faith claims or unsafe work environments. He is active in the community as the president of the Friedman Jewish Community Center, the secretary of the Jewish Community Alliance of Northeastern Pennsylvania and an executive advisory board member of The Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership at Wilkes.

Ciarimboli earned a dual degree in political science and engineering and applied science from Wilkes. He then studied at Duquesne University School of Law. Trucking and auto collision and medical malpractice litigation are his specialties, and his dedication to clients has earned him a place on the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list every year since 2008. An engaged community member and advocate, he serves on Wilkes University’s Board of Trustees and is a board member of The Arc, Wilkes-Barre YMCA and Marley’s Mission.

Fellerman and Ciarimboli are also the co-founders of Safe Prom Pledge, an initiative that educates students throughout northeastern Pennsylvania on the dangers of underage drinking and driving.