Catholic Central High School proudly congratulates Anthony Rugiero, father of Attilio Rugiero ’25 and Antonio Rugiero Jr. ’21, on his recent investiture into the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of Saint George, a prestigious knighthood rooted in a tradition of service and faith that dates back more than 500 years.

"I am deeply honored to be knighted by the Constantinian Order of Saint George, renowned for its dedicated service to the Church and charitable activities worldwide. As a person of profound faith, I am grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to serve this esteemed organization of the Holy See," Rugiero shared. 

On May 19, 2025, Rugiero was formally invested during a solemn Mass and investiture ceremony at the historic St. Agnes Church in New York City. The celebration honored his lifelong commitment to charity, leadership, and community impact. Family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to witness the occasion, which was followed by a formal black-tie reception at the Union League Club in Manhattan.

The Sacred Military Constantinian Order of Saint George was established by the Royal House of Bourbon and continues to recognize individuals around the world whose contributions to society rise above the ordinary, particularly in the areas of faith, philanthropy, and leadership. Rugiero joins a centuries-old legacy of individuals who are distinguished by their generosity of spirit and dedication to serving others.

“Anthony is well deserving,” shared family friend Mike Cox ‘80. “His faithfulness and generosity set him apart. It was a great day for Anthony and his family, including his wife, his children, and the entire Rugiero family.”

Best known as the president and CEO of Antonio’s Cucina Italiana in Farmington Hills and Roman Village in Dearborn, Rugiero is a beloved figure in Southeast Michigan’s restaurant and philanthropic communities. His leadership extends far beyond the kitchen, through his work as the founder of the Rugiero Promise Foundation. The foundation’s signature fundraising event, the Rugiero Casino Royale, raises critical funds for diabetes research at Michigan Medicine and supports numerous local and international charities.

His commitment to culture, education, and the arts is equally impressive. Rugiero is a founding board member of the Michigan Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums, and he also serves on the boards of the Detroit Opera House, Italian Language Inter-Cultural Alliance (ILICA-NYC), and the Volterra-Detroit Foundation School of Architecture. He is a generous supporter of the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Gleaners Food Bank, and other organizations that serve the most vulnerable in our communities.

The May 19 ceremony recognized six individuals from across the country whose life’s work exemplifies the mission of the Constantinian Order. Rugiero stood among them, honored for his service and dedication to uplifting others, ideals that align closely with the values of Catholic Central.

Catholic Central is honored to celebrate this achievement with the Rugiero family and joins in congratulating Antonio on this extraordinary recognition.