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Zambrini leaves lasting legacy in Canfield
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DANTE ZAMBRINI.
By ABBY SLANKER
Former Canfield Local Schools Superintendent Dante Zambrini passed away on Jan. 4. Zambrini served the Canfield Local Schools as superintendent for 10 years, from 2002-2012, and served in other capacities in the district for 36 years, including assistant superintendent, director of administrative services, Canfield Village Middle School principal and Canfield High School secondary instructor.
Zambrini earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education and Administration from Youngstown State University in 1976 and 1980, respectively. He was a graduate of Ursuline High School.
Julie Kercher, who has known Zambrini for more than 36 years, said he was dedicated to his students and the community.
“What can I say about Dante that will best explain my view of this man, my dear friend? As an educator, he was dedicated to his students and to instilling in them the skills that would take them to their highest potential. As an administrator, he knew he could not please everyone, but he always did what was best for all involved and achieved much more than many are aware. As a member of the community, he became involved in many civic groups to help improve the community, and he not only made others aware of issues but also helped neighbors share their love of home,” Kercher said.
Kercher also said Zambrini was a dear friend and will be greatly missed.
“Most importantly, as a friend, Dante was always ready to lift my spirits when I experienced a loss, to be the first to applaud my achievements, and to share with me his passion for seeing the very best in people. Like politicians, Dante could ‘work the room,’ but it was never to gain votes or acceptance. He did so to make everyone feel honored, accepted and special. If you paid attention and knew him well, his legacy is that you embrace life not as it is or as it might be but as it should be,” Kercher said.