The Connell Persico Student Leadership Scholarship is awarded annually to a CSPP-Los Angeles student displaying strong leadership. 

Dr. Persico served as the Dean of Students and Campus Provost at CSPP-LA from 1975-1991. In 1976, Dr. Persico worked with activist students to establish the first student government constitution, and throughout his tenure encouraged and supported active student involvement in determining the course of their education. In recognition of that contribution, the Board of Trustees established this scholarship.