B-W Couple Raises Major Money For Slain Officer Scholarship Fund

BALDWIN, PA — Baldwin residents Mary and Rip Odato of Baldwin recently opened their home for a fundraiser benefiting the Sean Sluganski Memorial Scholarship, established earlier this year by the Baldwin-Whitehall Educational Foundation.

About 150 guests attended this event to celebrate the life of Sean Sluganski, the McKeesport police officer from North Baldwin who was killed in the line of duty in February.

"It was truly special to honor Sean, who was such a caring and dedicated young man," Mary Odato said. "Hosting this event was a privilege."

Mary Odato said her family got to witness Sean's warmhearted nature as a fifth grade student at Paynter Elementary School.

"Sean was very good friends with our neighbor and babysitter, who came here from Bosnia when she was 12 years old," she said. "As we helped her adjust to life in America, Sean helped her adjust to life in American schools and helped her make new friends."

Through fundraising activities such as door donations, raffle tickets and silent auctions, the event raised approximately $13,000, a large contribution to the foundation scholarship campaign goal of $75,000.

Auction items included autographed memorabilia, gift baskets and a custom-made bar by Rip Odato. Attending police officers received thank-you gifts upon arrival and had the chance to win gift cards during the evening.

“It’s uplifting to see the community come together and honor Sean’s life in the best way we can—through laughter, hugs, and by showing the Sluganskis that they are surrounded by love and support,” said foundation director Erik Arroyo. “We hope that the scholarship brings some light into their world and serves as a constant reminder of the light Sean brought into ours.”

The scholarship will support graduating seniors of Baldwin High School who are pursuing a career in law enforcement.