Twice a year, one brother is selected by his peers to receive this prestigious award, given in honor of Peter Lino Barili ‘68. Peter died fighting for what he believed in, on February 21st, 1971 during his service in the Vietnam war. Peter was a Sigma Beta brother who so staunchly encapsulated what it means to be a good man, citizen, and friend, that his brothers Ed Shapiro ‘68 and John Lindahl ‘68 created and awarded the first scholarship in 1972 to honor his memory and his example of living life to the fullest.

Peter was known as an energetic and fun-loving student at the University of New Hampshire. If you didn’t know him well, you may have thought that was all there was to him. However, as a member of the Army ROTC, Peter’s sense of duty and patriotism were first and foremost. At a time when vocal protests permeated college campuses, Peter also demonstrated his commitment and resolve. Peter’s courage pitted him against popular opinion on college campuses as well as communist forces controlling North Vietnam. Peter served courageously and was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. He exemplified loyalty and brotherhood in all facets of his life, and the scholarship is given to the member of his beloved Sigma Beta fraternity that best demonstrates those traits.

The University of New Hampshire is the state’s flagship public university, and Sigma Beta has been part of the campus for over 100 years. The house itself was built by members during the Great Depression. The brotherhood adjourned during World War II in service to their country.

Among Sigma Beta’s alumni and Barili recipients are an astronaut, professional musicians, "Entrepreneur of the Year" winners, President of International division of a Fortune 100 company, a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, and business owners in the seacoast region including the leasing, finance, marine and construction industries as well as leaders of community organizations, educators and social services, and of course war heroes including Peter. 

The Barili Scholarship has helped individuals complete their education so they could start their careers. It has been supporting the best and brightest for over 50 years and getting results. Education was key to their success and the Barili Scholarship was key to their education.