Rich was a member of the St Francis Class of 96’

He took a great deal of pride in the fact he was a St Francis graduate and had developed close and lasting friendships from his “Frannie” days – many of which were still current prior to his unexpected and sudden death in January 2022. He was only 43 and left behind his partner Liz and 2 young daughters.

When Rich passed, one of his friends (also a St Francis grad) suggested we may want to establish a scholarship in his name as just one way to preserve his memory. Clearly, we felt this was a great idea and the Annual Rich Mata Tailgate Scholarship Fund drive was born.

Brian Mata, Rich’s brother, and class of 99’ also very involved with St Francis, was very close to his brother and instrumental in making the Tailgate fund raisers a success. His wife and two children very close to Rich also and miss him greatly.

We feel a heartfelt connection to St Francis in ways difficult to describe in a few words as the support the faculty and administration give the young men who attend the school is second to none. We have seen first hand young teenage boys grow and develop in academics, sports, the arts and in general become St Francis men. Lifelong connections are made and it is impressive.

We believe that by contributing to this scholarship you can continue to assist other young men who desire a St Francis education to have one, which will in turn help them to be successful in any future endeavor they seek. It’s not just a school, it’s a way of life.