The Josephine Ann and Joseph Simon Macko Scholarship

The Josephine Ann and Joseph Simon Macko Scholarship was established in memory of Joseph Macko and in honor of Josephine Macko by their daughter, Susan Macko Cianciola. The Mackos were lifelong residents of Barberton. Joseph learned a strong work ethic at an early age. His father died in an accident less than 12 hours after he was born, leaving his mother to raise Joe and his three siblings in a country where she did not speak the language. By seven years of age, Joe had a job setting pins at the bowling alley for a few pennies a day, which he gave to his mother.

Josephine graduated from Barberton High School. Joe attended Barberton also, playing football and wrestling, but left school to join the Navy in World War II. Joseph and Josephine were married on January 1, 1945. Together they raised five children. Joseph was co-owner and operator of Macko Motel and Restaurant for 31 years and founder of Joe-Jo’s Drive Thru. Joseph belonged to many organizations, including Barberton Moose Lodge, Barberton V.F.W., the Slovak Club, Hungarian Club, Holy Name Society, and Knights of Columbus. Josephine and Joseph were married for 50 years. Joseph was also a member of S.S. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, where Josephine still attends. Joseph passed away December 15, 1994. Josephine is active in community activities, belongs to The St. Anne Society, and enjoys shopping and being a grandmother to her five grandchildren.

The Josephine Ann and Joseph Simon Macko Scholarship commemorates the Macko family’s dedication to a strong work ethic, personal faith, and the importance of lifelong learning. Through this scholarship, Susan Macko Cianciola hopes to encourage students at Barberton High School to strive for excellence in their studies and to further their education in college.

The scholarship is to be awarded to one male and one female graduate of Barberton High School who will attend The University of Akron Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences. Preference is to be given to students who have achieved a 3.5 GPA or better in high school. If no students meet that criteria, the scholarship may be awarded to a student with a 3.0 GPA or higher. The recipient will be chosen by the Office of Student Financial Aid.