For Leslie Minicozzi Galacci teamwork makes the dream work is the philosophy she follows in her daily life.
“Nothing meaningful is ever accomplished alone. It takes a collective effort. I truly believe you get back what you put out into the world, so I try to lead with hard work, positivity, and gratitude,” said the owner and vice-president of Alfredo’s Cafe, Scranton.
As an owner who married into the business that her husband proudly established 44 years ago, she wears many hats. Her primary responsibilities focus on advertising and the behind-the-scenes operations that keep everything running smoothly. She is involved in hiring, scheduling, payroll, special events planning and making sure their team has the support and tools they need to succeed each day.
After high school, Galacci attended the University of Scranton and studied communications. She chose to enter the workforce to gain hands-on experience knowing she is someone who learns best by doing.
The businesswoman has been blessed with strong mentors in her life, including her parents, who instilled in her the value of hard work, passion, and self-belief, and her husband, an incredible mentor who through his example, has shown her that with dedication, positivity, and perseverance, one can accomplish anything they set their heart to. “When I look at everything in my life, above all recognition and achievements, nothing could ever compare to the importance my family means to me. They are my foundation, my motivation, and the reason behind all that I do and love. Family is not just an important part of my life; they are my everything,” she said.
Galacci attributes her success to the incredible people around her, including their dedicated staff that works diligently each day and the loyal customers and community who continue to support and embrace their restaurant.
Galacci is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of her entire family, but especially for her husband, Don, and her son, Zachary. “They are my backbone, the loves of my life, my confidants, and my best friends. My husband, Don, owns and runs the business with remarkable dedication, and my son, Zachary, serves as a manager, working right alongside him,” she explains. “I have the privilege of loving them and standing beside them each day, watching their commitment, sacrifice, and heart poured into everything we continue to build together as a family. Working side by side, united by passion and purpose, is what truly makes everything possible, and it means more to me than I can put into words.”
The business owner is proud to support many causes in the community, and the work closest to her heart is through the UNICO Scranton Chapter. She also serves as chair for the Cpt. James R. Minicozzi Memorial Race, held annually in honor of her brother, who passed away at 36 years old in 2012. Proceeds from the race benefit the children at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeastern Pennsylvania for its annual Christmas party and to help fund college scholarships. “Giving back in this way is deeply meaningful to me; it keeps my brother’s legacy alive while supporting the next generation in our community,” she noted.
Galacci has been deeply honored to receive several recognitions throughout the years, including her family being named the 2017 Champions of Youth honorees by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeastern Pennsylvania and most recently, she was humbled to receive the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Northeastern PA Chapter’s 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser award.
Leslie Minicozzi Galacci
Age: 54
Home: Clarks Summit
Title: Owner/Vice-President
Company: Alfredo’s Cafe, South Washington Avenue, South Side Shopping Center, ScrantoN