On September 3, 1979, Catina Rose Salarno was stalked and brutally murdered execution-style on her first day at the University of the Pacific in Stockton California. Her senseless and heinous murder sent shockwaves throughout California and highlighted the injustice perpetrated on crime victims in our criminal justice system. Mike and Harriet Salarno (Catina’s parents) founded Crime Victims United, and Crime Victims United Charitable Foundation to become the voice of the crime victim and public safety as well as support victims of crime. Today, Harriet (Mike is deceased) and her daughter Nina carry on the mission to support victims of crime.  

Recognizing that crime victims not only suffer at the hands of the perpetrator but are often left alone to face the criminal justice system and the long-lasting effects of crime in their lives. It takes incredible strength for crime victims to repair their shattered lives and overcome, succeed, and achieve. Crime Victims United Charitable Foundation is dedicated to supporting that strength in crime victims.  

Catina loved education learning was her passion. She was so excited to be entering college to pursue her degree and achieve her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist. Although her dream was cut short before it started, her memory and passion for education still thrive. Crime Victims United Charitable Foundation established the Catina Rose Salarno Memorial Scholarship to honor Catina. This scholarship is given annually each August to a victim of crime who is turning their pain into a passion and helping others by achieving an education.

The scholarship is funded through monies raised at our annual All American Rib Cook-off (www.allamericanribcookoff.com). Through this event, a group of dedicated individuals, volunteers, and the community come together to support victims of crime.  

“My daughter Jenna felt so special and embraced by Harriet and the CVU staff.  We were honored to be recognized; for the first time we felt supported and realized CVU is a place for us to turn to in the future.”

— Cindy Culotta, Mother of 2022 CVU Scholarship Winner

Although our hearts break that you have been a victim of a crime; we encourage you to review the criteria and apply. Please know that we’re here to support you.