Founding Faculty Member Made an Enduring Impact
A Renaissance man, Antonio Furino loved traveling, sports cars and the finer things in life, though his true calling was being a professore. He and his wife of 46 years, Harriette, included a gift in their will to UTSA, creating the Antonio and Harriette Woody Furino Memorial Student Scholarship Endowment, a permanent tribute to their shared commitment to education. In recognition of his contributions, the Carlos Alvarez College of Business dedicated the Furino Seminar Room in the Business Building.
“He liked to teach and help others learn,” shared Harriette. “He had the vision that something good was going to happen at UTSA. He wanted to do his part in making education attainable for students from all backgrounds.”
A native of Rome, Antonio worked in the Italian movie industry as a writer while he pursued his J.D. from the University of Rome. Arriving in the United States in 1958 he met Harriette at the University of Houston where she received her bachelor’s degree, while Antonio earned a Ph.D. in economics.
Antonio joined UTSA in 1973 as a founding faculty member. He began teaching economics to dental students in 1987 and later became inaugural director of the Center for Health Economics and Policy. Even after retiring in 2006, Antonio continued his research as professor until his passing in 2023 at the age of 92.
“Dr. Furino was a wonderful colleague and extremely talented in his ability to get funding for research grants and to conduct research,” said Lila Truett, professor emeritus of economics. “Beyond his scholarly talents, he was a joy to be with as a friend. He gave me some great tips on how to make a pizza, and I use them to this day.”
By including a gift in their will to support students, the Furinos found a meaningful way to express their belief that education is the key to a better life. As Harriette emphasized, “Antonio was dedicated and enjoyed working with the students. He didn’t set out to build a legacy, but it lives in what has come to pass. This scholarship will forever be a testament to his commitment to UTSA and furthering the education of others.”
