We’re empowering middle and high schoolers to realize their biggest dreams.
The best moments in school were the ones where the classroom met the real world. When the teacher says you can put away the textbook and go to space at school. That’s why we’re working relentlessly to bring learning to life for students all over the country.
Where our story began
Rocco Scalzi founded Beating the Odds in 1990, after turning his life around following a tragic incident as a former Altoona Pennsylvania police officer. He wanted to share his story, empowering students to overcome their own obstacles, achieve success, and beat the odds.
To kick off the organization, Rocco brought 15,000 students to hear from two speakers who overcame tremendous obstacles: former Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl champion, Vietnam War hero, and our Honorary Co-Chair, Rocky Bleier, and Vietnam War hero, Bob Wieland.
Today, we offer transformative programs that can be integrated into school curriculums, hands-on experiences outside the classroom, and events with inspirational Quarterbacks of Life, ranging from NASA astronauts to Olympic gold medalists.
Board of trustees
Deb Sahd
Chairman
Former PA DOC Administrator
Owner, Rad Batter Cookies
Ziad Khoury, MD
Cardiologist
Rocco Alianiello
Retired Corporate Executive
Jason Ebersole
Advertising Sales Manager
Joseph Shulman
Retired Corporate Executive and Entrepreneur
Joseph Trofino, Esq.
Creative Artists Agency
Head of Commercial Transactions & Client Services
Office of the Chief Legal Officer
Cathy L. Taschner, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Administrative staff
Rocco Scalzi
Founder & CEO
Ernie Isgro
Producer & Editor
Theresa Showalter
Marketing Director
How our logo
reflects favorable odds
Our logo shows how we inspire students to beat the odds.
The circle, inspired by the shape of the moon, shows how we bring learning to life through methodologically proven programs. The star shows the spark we ignite in students through hands-on learning experiences. Combined in the perfect ratio, these programs and experiences increase the chances of student success.
