LYS Alumni Profiles

Since 1971, Louisiana Youth Seminar has made a difference in individuals' lives. Read some of the LYS Profiles below to find out how these individuals were impacted by their LYS experience.

Back to Articles

Vickie Guzzino Guarisco

LYS Profile: Vickie Guzzino Guarisco

1977 – Delegate from Patterson High School
Currently – Community Volunteer, Mandeville

Vickie Guzzino came to LYS as a delegate in 1977. She was selected as the “Most Outstanding Group Leader” from her Home Group and was selected as the 1977 LYS “Most Spirited.” Vickie returned as a Junior Counselor in 1978 and 1979, as a Counselor in 1980 and 1981, as a Staff Assistant in 1982 and 1983, and as Assistant Program Director in 1984. Vickie was inducted into the LYS 5 Year Club and the LYS Hall of Fame. She serves as Chair, Board of Directors, on the Board Fund Development Subcommitte, and as Co-Chair, LYS Alumni Annual Fund.

Upon graduation from the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, Vickie pursued a career in hotel management serving as Catering Sales Manager at nationally recognized Hilton and Sheraton hotels. With increased responsibilities, she moved on to serve as Director of Special Events and as Director, Searle Conference Center, at the Duke University Medical Center. Although Vickie left the corporate world, she continued to exhibit her leadership in her community. She has served on the Board of Saint Scholastica Academy and the Rich Mauti Cancer Fund Tennis Tournament. She is an active volunteer at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Demonstrating her commitment for civic involvement, Vickie serves as an Elections Commissioner in St. Tammany Parish. Vickie and her husband, Dr. Steve Guarisco, live in Mandeville with their two children, Nick and Elizabeth. Elizabeth has attended and loves LYS.

Vickie continues to be very active in LYS and is committed to the youth of Louisiana. When asked about LYS’s impact on her, Vickie responded: "LYS, what has it done for me? How do you explain the unexplainable? The program has given me strength, confidence, lasting friendships, and hope. It has filled a special place in my heart that I didn't know was missing."