Carl LaGrotteria, Sr.

Carl LaGrotteria, Sr. (Sargent’74) of Brick, N.J., lost his legs during the Vietnam War when he stepped on a land mine. After returning to the United States, he graduated from BU, earning his degree at Sargent College—as valedictorian. “While in Boston, I accomplished many activities that helped begin a billion-dollar industry, highlighted the abilities of disabled veterans, encouraged Boston to progress with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and taught swimming to autistic children,” he writes. In April 2023, Carl published his autobiography, The Final Me (Carl Vincent LaGrotteria, Sr.), touching upon his struggles and triumphs as a disabled veteran in America, and his commitment to helping others.