The Fred R. and Lillian Anber Aramony Memorial Scholarship
Fred and Lillian Anber Aramony were entrepreneurs who remained faithful to their Lebanese heritage. To celebrate their legacy and the impact they have had on their family and community, their daughter, Diane Aramony, created the Fred R. and Lillian Anber Aramony Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship fund will award two $2,500.00 scholarships annually to students of Middle Eastern background, with special consideration given to those of Lebanese descent. Secondary preference, for one award, will be given to those pursuing a degree in Business Administration.
After Fred and Lillian Aramony were married, together they ran Sportsguide Manufacturing Company, which Fred founded in 1949 and which manufactured skiwear and outerwear. This subsequently led them into a career in retail sales. They built Don Fredrick Factory Outlet, one of the first factory outlets of its kind, which became a local Worcester institution. As business partners for over five decades, their keen business skills, integrity, and high ethical standards drew praise. Fred’s greatest accolades were derived from his patrons, who fondly remember his warm smile, endearing demeanor, and generous heart. Lillian’s flair for fashion created a personal style that was her trademark. She was gifted with patience and understanding and was a role model for all who knew her.
They were both active members of the community. Fred joined the YMCA at the age of 15 and remained active in the organization throughout his life. Both were longtime members of Saint George Orthodox Cathedral where Fred served on the Board of Directors and Lillian was a member of the Saint George Women’s Club. Fred was honored as a 60-year member of the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed writing poetry, while Lillian followed her love of music as a member of the Worcester Community Chorale. Fred and Lillian’s entrepreneurial vision and business accomplishments will serve to inspire students to reach for their dreams. Their story demonstrates how success is guided by strong morals and ethics, devotion to family, loyalty to heritage, and service to community.
Their daughter, Diane M. Aramony, received her undergraduate degree in French studies from Worcester State University and earned a Master of Arts degree from Middlebury College. In 2009, Worcester State University honored Diane with the Distinguished Alumni Award for Professional Achievement, the University’s highest non-degree award. Following in her parents’ footsteps, Diane served as executive vice president and corporate secretary of Mutual of America Life Insurance Company in New York City until retiring in 2019. She continues to serve as an inspirational role model to many young women.