Elliott Moscato Scholarship Fund

Elliott Moscato was a son, brother, nephew, cousin, and great friend to many. He was smart, funny, happy, patriotic, loved ethnic food, pizza, music, and baseball. Elliott also had an incredible desire to care for and help others. Above all, he loved his family. 

When Elliott passed away suddenly last year at the age of 22, he left an enormous void of love, respect, and admiration that many take a lifetime to amass. Despite his youth, his personal connections and positive impact resonated deeply with all who crossed his path.

“He was always such a sweet boy, truly an old soul,” said Kathleen Kiley, Elliott’s mom. “People instantly liked Ell because he was kind, caring, exceptional and always flashed his million-dollar smile. His love for those around him was pure and sincere.” 

Elliott was born and raised in Derby, attended the Eagle Hill School in Southport, and graduated from Emmett O’Brien Technical High School in Ansonia, where he discovered the Precision Machining trade. As a senior, he earned recognition, having received several scholarships, one most notably which exemplified Elliott’s perseverance to excellence in his trade. 

After graduating in 2019, Elliott continued to work as a machinist, a job that required high-precision skills and talent.  

“Elliott enjoyed his high school years, it was there he flourished and learned that he had an innate talent as a machinist,” said his aunt, Annette Frank. “He had an incredible work ethic, and it was Ell’s determination which led him to be successful at Emmett O’Brien, in his trade, and in his life.” 

Soon after he passed away, Elliott’s family decided to do something special to honor his memory and established the Elliott Moscato Scholarship Fund at the Valley Community Foundation. His scholarship will be awarded to an Emmett O’Brien graduate who plans on pursuing a career in Precision Machining Technology.  

The scholarship recipient will reflect Elliott’s spirit, be of strong moral character, and be kind and generous. This person will also be loving and dedicated to family and friends, patriotic, and act as a positive role model for other students, Kathleen said. 

Elliott had an unwavering commitment to help others whether it be family, friends, neighbors, or even strangers. It was a trait that served him well as a Boy Scout with Troop 3 in Derby. He earned the highest achievement, Eagle Scout, with the help and guidance of his older brother, mentor, best friend, and fellow Eagle Scout, Joshua. 

“Elliott was a terrific young man who lived the Scout Oath and Law in his daily life,” said his Troop Leader, Randy Ritter. “Elliott was enthusiastic, and always put the needs of others ahead of his own.”